*Disclosure: Brands mentioned aren’t affiliated with the University of Houston nor the athletes mentioned. This article is for entertainment purposes only.
We are currently in the era of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), a major development in collegiate sports that emphasizes the financial rights and security of student-athletes. In the past, the idea of compensating athletes for the use of their name, image, or likeness was considered controversial and largely dismissed. However, in 2009, former UCLA basketball star Ed O’Bannon sued EA Sports, sparking a national conversation and paving the way for legal action toward fair athlete compensation.
Uh Volleyball Made NIL history
During the 2022 season, the University of Houston women’s volleyball team poured their blood, sweat, and tears into making history, advancing to the NCAA Championship for the first time since 2000. But the excitement didn’t stop there. The team became the first women’s program on campus to secure a NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal—partnering with EyeLab through LinkingCoogs. Under the agreement, players were required to participate in a meet-and-greet during the season and make two promotional posts on their personal social media pages, earning around $1,000 in compensation. That partnership took place three years ago—but what about now?
Present day
Currently, only a handful of players on the team have merchandise collections available on CougarThreads (Athlete’s Thread). This unique deal allows athletes to earn a commission each time an item from their personal collection is purchased. Unlike in 2022, only three players had merchandise available for sale: Olivia Klimis (#7), Addisyn Pohl (#12), and Gillian Pitts (#24).
Fortunately, LinkingCoogs, powered by The Link U, provides additional opportunities for athletes to benefit from their NIL. Similar to CougarThreads, LinkingCoogs offers fans the chance to purchase items such as autographs, personalized posts, and meet-and-greet experiences. Luckily for Cougar fans, there are plenty of players to support this 2025 season, including Alyssa Gonzales (#1), Alana Torres-Rivera (#2), Avery Shimaitis (#9), Barkat Rahmon (#13), Ella Wendel (#14), and Bre Reid (#16).
Looking ahead, the UH women’s volleyball team has more than proven their deserving of NIL attention, if I’m being honest. It’s time for these deals to go beyond the court and highlight each player’s individual brand. After scrolling through a few of their Instagram pages, it’s clear there’s untapped potential for partnerships in beauty, hair care, and skincare. The players have the charisma, style, and authenticity that brands crave. Here’s how I see it unfolding.
Let’s talk braids
Barakat Rahmon, the powerhouse middle blocker who’s racked up 143 points this season, is more than just a force on the court; she’s a style icon in her own right. From her sleek box braids to her flawless makeup both before and after matches, Rahmon embodies the beauty and confidence of African American athletes embracing protective hairstyles. For many Black women in sports, protective styles are not just a statement; they’re a practical, time-saving choice. A brand like Camille Rose and its “Braids in Mint Condition” collection would be a perfect partnership fit for Rahmon’s growing personal brand.
“Game-Day Glam: A Student-Athlete Hair Journey”
- Capture Barakat heading to her hair appointment, music playing, gym bag in hand, giving viewers a glimpse into her pre-appointment routine.
- Once she arrives, she unboxes her haircare essentials: braid & scalp spray, gel, and style & set foam, highlighting the clean design, scent, and first impressions.
- Show each product in action at different stages of the braiding process. Include close-ups of texture, application, and stylist commentary on how lightweight or moisturizing each product feels.
- Feature the final look with a short voiceover describing product details, such as weight, scent, and flake-free hold, paired with slow-motion shots of the finished style.
- After a practice or match, show how the braids and products hold up under real athletic conditions. Barakat shares an authentic update on durability, sweat resistance, and overall comfort.
Strawberry brows
Kellen Morin, a middle blocker with 91 kills this season, stands out not only for her impressive talent on the court but also for her striking strawberry-blonde hair. A distinctive hair color calls for equally thoughtful makeup choices. A brand like Glossier, with products such as their blonde-toned brow gel pomade, perfectly complements Morin’s aesthetic. Her Instagram page showcases everything from selfies to media-day photos, providing the perfect platform to highlight the use of brow gel in her beauty routine.
Post idea: “From Court to Camera: Media Day Prep”
- Show the product being opened, highlighting packaging, texture, and any included applicators.
- Demonstrate how to apply the gel, focusing on technique, stroke direction, and even coverage.
- Include side by side shots or a split-screen to clearly show the transformation.
- End the clip by stating the product’s shade name and any tips on why it works for certain skin tones or looks.
Beach babe
For the past few years, skincare influencers have been emphasizing the importance of wearing sunscreen, and Olivia Klimis (#7), freshman setter with 44 assists, is clearly no stranger to the outdoors. The Florida native and beach volleyball enthusiast embodies the quintessential “beach babe” lifestyle. Considering her active, sun-filled routine, partnerships with brands like Dippin Daisy Swim and Vacation Sunscreen would be a natural fit for her personal brand.
Post idea: “Game On: Beach Volleyball with [Brand Name]!”
- Feature Olivia unboxing her new swimwear and sunscreen, highlighting packaging, first impressions, and excitement for the products.
- Present different swimsuits, focusing on fit, style, and how they move with her body. Include close-ups and a few quick try-on clips.
- Show Olivia applying sunscreen with a voiceover describing key product details, texture, feel on skin, presence of white cast, oiliness or dryness, and overall comfort.
- Include a quick highlight of Olivia playing beach volleyball, emphasizing mobility and comfort in the swimwear while staying protected with sunscreen.
After all, we’re in Texas, so I’m sure many fans would love to see volleyball or soccer players using a setting spray or powder before a match, showcasing the true meaning of “sweat proof.” More brands should take notice: the girls are watching, both on and off the court.
The UH women’s volleyball team continues to impress on and off the court, season after season, posting a record of eight wins. Navigating NIL deals can be tricky, as the concept is still relatively new. Most current partnerships focus heavily on sports-related products, running shoes, energy drinks, athletic apparel, and sports equipment, limiting the audience brands can reach. With beauty and lifestyle brands taking over social media, it won’t be long before we see more opportunities tailored for female athletes, helping them build their personal brands while reaching a wider audience.
Thank you for taking the time to read my vision for the UH women’s volleyball team.