Gordon McKernan’s Journey into NIL Partnerships
The world of college sports has seen a significant shift with the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes. Amid this exciting shift, Gordon McKernan quickly established himself as one of the states largest supporters of NIL. But why did Gordon decide to enter the NIL space? One of our teammates recently sat down with him to get the inside scoop.
Entering the Game
Gordon shared that his involvement in the NIL space was, first and foremost, an act of love—love for Louisiana, its student-athletes, and for the institutions they represent. It’s not about financial gains for him; it’s about offering support to the student-athletes.
He acknowledges that, while his involvement has benefited his business, there isn’t a direct dollar return attached to it. Instead, his motivation comes from a place of support, aiming to help these athletes raise their profiles, build goodwill in the community, and provide them with a head start.
Choosing NIL Partners
When asked about how he selects prospective NIL partnerships, Gordon highlighted the significance of character. He seeks partnerships with athletes who are genuinely good people and can positively represent his brand. He’s also drawn to athletes with unique stories, personalities, and qualities that set them apart from their peers. Their performance in their respective sports plays a part in his decision, but their character is most important to him.
Character and relationships are the guiding forces behind every partnership he enters. He believes that these values, coupled with the athletes’ abilities, are the key to successful NIL partnerships.
Advice to Other Businesses
Gordon encourages other businesses to take part, underlining that the NIL space is not as daunting as it may appear. His journey has been made smoother through collaboration with the institutions, which has played a crucial role in navigating the process. This partnership creates a win-win scenario, benefiting both student-athletes and the businesses that support them.
“Get off the sidelines, get involved, get in the game, and participate.”
gordon mckernan
Support Stretching Far and Wide
From the grounds of Louisiana State University to Southern University, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and Louisiana Tech University, Gordon’s support for student-athletes extends far and wide.
Our firm’s journey into the NIL space has shown us that there is a wealth of talent and potential among student-athletes across the state. We remain dedicated to supporting student-athletes from diverse backgrounds, sports, and institutions across Louisiana.
