When John Rhys Plumlee, the talented quarterback and former Ole Miss transfer, declined a lucrative deal from the UCF-driven collective Kingdom NIL earlier this year, he knew that more opportunities would come his way. As he prepares to lead the Knights in the upcoming Big 12 Conference, Plumlee has emerged as a prominent figure in the NIL space, boasting over 160,000 social media followers and attracting the attention of multiple brands.
Plumlee's decision to turn down UCF's significant financial package highlights his selflessness and the importance of supporting his teammates. In the world of NIL, quarterbacks typically command the highest value, making his gesture all the more remarkable.
Just recently, Plumlee proudly announced one of the anticipated NIL deals that he had been waiting for. The UCF quarterback has become the first college athlete to sign an endorsement agreement with Icy Hot, a leading brand in sports recovery products. Plumlee filmed a captivating social media advertisement for the brand, showcasing their Icy Hot Pro product.
Plumlee's versatility as a two-sport athlete is noteworthy, having started 58 baseball games as the center fielder for the Knights. Now, he brings his influence to promote Icy Hot's Pro product, emphasizing its role in his post-practice recovery routine. The video, released across Plumlee's social media channels, has generated significant buzz.
In an exclusive interview with On3, Plumlee expressed his excitement about the partnership, revealing his personal connection to Icy Hot. "Growing up using Icy Hot and watching Shaq in their commercials makes me so fired up about this partnership," he shared. Plumlee also teased his followers, urging them to stay tuned for updates on how he will incorporate Icy Hot Pro products throughout the season.
Since its introduction in 1984, Icy Hot has been widely recognized for its association with NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal. The brand, produced and marketed by Chattem, has enjoyed a successful collaboration with O'Neal for nearly two decades. Expanding its reach into the professional ranks, Icy Hot has also partnered with renowned athletes such as Rose Lavelle, Darren Waller, and Sloane Stephens.
Now, John Rhys Plumlee has made history by becoming the first college athlete to endorse Icy Hot, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the NIL era. This groundbreaking partnership not only showcases Plumlee's rising star power but also highlights the significance of athletes embracing new opportunities in the evolving landscape of college sports.
