As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have become game-changers, especially in college basketball. For the 2025-26 season, a new wave of high-profile athletes is capitalizing on multimillion-dollar opportunities. Below is a breakdown of the top 10 highest-valued non-football college athletes, featuring massive NIL deals, brand endorsements, and NBA draft potential.
- AJ Dybantsa – BYU | $4.1 Million
Ranked No. 2 in the 2025 recruiting class (via 247 Sports), AJ Dybantsa headlines the list with a reported $7 million NIL deal from BYU’s collective. The freshman phenom already holds partnerships with Nike and Red Bull and is expected to be a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
- JT Toppin – Texas Tech | $2.8 Million
After leading Texas Tech to the Elite Eight, JT Toppin secured a $4 million NIL deal to stay in Lubbock. He earned Big 12 Player of the Year honors and is now the 12th highest-valued college athlete according to On3.
- Yaxel Lendeborg – Michigan | $2.3 Million
A transfer from UAB, Yaxel Lendeborg opted out of the 2025 NBA Draft after Michigan reportedly offered a $3 million NIL package. He’s considered one of the top impact transfers and the No. 1 portal player this offseason.
- Boogie Fland – Florida | $2.1 Million
After a strong freshman season at Arkansas, Boogie Fland transferred to Florida, netting an NIL deal worth over $2 million. The Gators gain a dynamic scorer and one of the top-valued guards in college hoops.
- Donovan Dent – UCLA | $2 Million
The reigning Mountain West Player of the Year, Donovan Dent, transferred from New Mexico to UCLA with a $3 million NIL deal. He received $2 million upfront and is expected to be a key contributor for the Bruins.
- Jayden Quaintance – Kentucky | $1.9 Million
Still just 17, Jayden Quaintance brings one year of experience from Arizona State and joins a stacked Kentucky team. Despite an ACL injury, his NIL value continues to rise with deals from PSD Underwear and Panini America.
- Braden Smith – Purdue | $1.9 Million
Returning for his senior year, Braden Smith is the reigning Big Ten Player of the Year and Bob Cousy Award winner. He holds NIL deals with Hey Dude Shoes and Purdue’s collective, and his decision to stay reflects the impact of NIL in player retention.
- Moustapha Thiam – Cincinnati | $1.8 Million
After averaging 2.6 blocks per game at UCF, Moustapha Thiam transferred to Cincinnati with a reported $2 million NIL deal. He ranks 32nd on On3’s most valuable athletes list despite no current brand endorsements.
- Oscar Cluff – Purdue | $1.7 Million
Another addition for Purdue, Oscar Cluff transferred from South Dakota State and brings big-time rebounding (12.3 RPG). While he reportedly turned down larger NIL offers, his commitment signals Purdue’s growing influence.
- PJ Haggerty – Kansas State | $1.7 Million
After averaging 21.7 PPG at Memphis (3rd nationally), PJ Haggerty landed a $2.5 million NIL deal with Kansas State. Though he fell short of his $4M target, he remains a high-impact transfer and a top-35 NIL athlete.
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Final Thoughts
The 2025-26 college basketball season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, not only for on-court performances but also for the explosive growth of NIL deals. These top athletes are redefining what it means to be a student-athlete, balancing brand partnerships, draft stock, and college stardom.
