Just when college sports fans thought they’d seen it all, Michigan State’s Jaden Akins has flipped the script. The junior guard — better known this season for his bench presence than buzzer-beaters — has inked a jaw-dropping $60 million endorsement deal with Powerade.
The internet is ablaze, and so are the debates. While fans celebrate a new era of athlete empowerment under NIL rules, critics are raising eyebrows. “Is this about performance or persona?” asked one anonymous Big Ten coach. “We’ve got kids putting up triple-doubles without a sniff of sponsorship.”
But Powerade’s message is clear: Akins is more than a stat line. “He’s relatable, resilient, and ready to lead a new generation,” said the brand’s spokesperson. “It’s not just about playing the game — it’s about changing it.”
The campaign kicked off with a bold ad featuring Akins holding a blue Powerade bottle and the words “STUNNING AGREEMENT” in bold above his serious stare. Social media responded immediately, turning the image into both a meme and a marketing win.
Whether you love him, doubt him, or still don’t know what position he plays — one thing’s clear: Jaden Akins just secured the bag.
