Breaking News: Tennessee Vols Lady Basketball Star Avery Strickland Stuns College Basketball World, Rejects Jaw-Dropping $4.5 Million NIL Offer from Georgia, Notre Dame to Remain with the Vols: ‘I Have No Plans Beyond Being a Lady Vol’.
In a bold and unprecedented move, Tennessee Lady Vols basketball standout Avery Strickland has turned down a staggering $4.5 million NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) offer from powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame, sending shockwaves throughout the college basketball community. The junior guard, who emerged as a breakout star last season, reaffirmed her loyalty to Rocky Top in a heartfelt announcement Saturday morning.
“I have no plans beyond being a Lady Vol,” Strickland said during a press conference held at Thompson-Boling Arena. “This program, this school, this fanbase—they’ve given me everything. I’m here to win championships, not chase paychecks.”
Strickland’s decision comes at a time when the NIL landscape has reshaped college athletics, with top-tier athletes receiving multi-million dollar deals. Her rejection of such a massive offer in favor of staying loyal to Tennessee highlights not only her character, but also the culture head coach Kellie Harper has built in Knoxville.
The 6-foot sharpshooter averaged 17.8 points per game last season, shooting 42% from beyond the arc, and was instrumental in Tennessee’s deep NCAA tournament run. With her leadership, the Lady Vols are once again poised to contend for a national title.
Social media erupted with praise from fans, alumni, and even WNBA players, many calling Strickland the “heart of the program.” In an era dominated by NIL headlines, her loyalty and passion have reignited a powerful narrative: that college pride can still triumph over financial temptation.
With her eyes set on legacy over luxury, Avery Strickland is not just making headlines—she’s making history.
Leave a Reply