An NBA insider claims Kawhi Leonard sought $15 million in endorsement money from the Raptors to return to Toronto, but the deal did not materialize, and Leonard eventually signed with the Clippers. The story suggests possible rule circumventions and highlights concerns about league integrity, with some sources indicating that NBA Commissioner Adam Silver was aware of potential misconduct.
Boston Celtics' Jaylen Brown's ongoing feud with Nike intensified after the brand's social media post seemingly mocked Brown's recent comments about Giannis Antetokounmpo. Brown had called Antetokounmpo "a child" following an on-court incident, and Nike's post highlighted Antetokounmpo's 59-point game with the phrase "Nothing childish about 'em." Brown, who has criticized Nike in the past and launched his own shoe brand, 741, remains firm in his stance against signing with Nike, even if it affects his chances with Team USA.
Taylor Swift became a billionaire through her hit music, record-breaking tours, smart business moves, and lucrative endorsement deals. With a reported net worth of $1.1 billion, she earned $400 million from her music catalog, $160 million from streaming deals, $80 million from record sales, and $370 million from tours. Additionally, her real estate portfolio, valued at approximately $150 million, and endorsement deals with major companies have contributed to her wealth, along with her family's financial cushion.
Snoop Dogg revealed that OnlyFans offered him $100 million to show explicit content, but he declined, citing his wife's disapproval. The rapper, known for his endorsement deals and upcoming gig as an Olympics correspondent, joked about his wife's reaction and his recent fitness journey, expressing excitement for the Paris Olympics.
The NCAA Division I Council has approved new rules to assist athletes in navigating name, image, and likeness (NIL) contracts, including standardized contract recommendations and a registry of trusted agents. The council also proposed rules to facilitate deals between athletes and NIL collectives, with the aim of protecting athletes and removing bad actors from the marketplace. Additionally, stiffer penalties for NCAA rule violators were adopted, and NCAA president Charlie Baker's proposal for more progressive rule changes, including direct payment to athletes for university promotion, is under consideration.
Giants quarterback Tommy DeVito has reconciled with Coniglio's Old Fashioned pizzeria after his agent allegedly reneged on a deal. DeVito personally visited the pizzeria to apologize and enjoy their pizza. Additionally, DeVito has hired a marketing agent, Maxx Lepselter, to handle his off-field endorsement deals, while his previous agent, Sean Stellato, will continue to handle his football contract.
Joey Chestnut, the reigning champion of the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, has become a multimillionaire through his success as a competitive eater. With earnings of over $500,000 last year and a net worth exceeding $4 million, Chestnut's income primarily comes from contest winnings, paid appearances, and endorsement deals. He made the decision to become a full-time competitive eater in 2010 after receiving a lucrative offer from Pepto-Bismol. Chestnut's financial success has allowed him to buy a house and invest in stocks, although he acknowledges that he could potentially earn even more. Despite his financial gains, Chestnut's love for competition remains his driving force.
Ariana Madix, a star of the reality TV show Vanderpump Rules, could potentially earn over $1 million by the end of the year thanks to her split from her longtime boyfriend and co-star Tom Sandoval, who cheated on her with her close friend Raquel Leviss. Madix has landed endorsement deals, TV offers, a movie role, public appearances, and an invitation to the White House. She has gained 500,000 Instagram followers in the last two months and has been offered deals to sell everything from vibrators to fried chicken. Madix also has two merchandise lines, a DIY cocktail line, and a yearly Vanderpump Rules salary of around $500,000 per season.
