BREAKING NEWS: Michigan State’s Coen Carr Inks Historic $55M Samsung Deal — Donates $11M to Youth and Orphanage Programs
East Lansing, MI – July 5, 2025
In a landmark move that redefines the scale of college athlete endorsements, Michigan State Spartans forward Coen Carr has signed a record-shattering $55 million endorsement deal with tech giant Samsung — the largest ever for a college basketball player.
Carr, a 6-foot-7 sophomore phenom known for his electrifying dunks, tenacious defense, and gravity-defying athleticism, has quickly become one of the most marketable young athletes in America. Sources close to the negotiation confirmed that the deal spans three years and includes promotional campaigns for Samsung’s new AI-integrated Galaxy series, smart wearables, and a new youth-oriented tech education initiative.
A Deal That Breaks Boundaries
The deal, finalized late Thursday, was orchestrated by Carr’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) representation at Apex Talent Group. The partnership positions Carr not only as a brand ambassador but also as a collaborator in Samsung’s upcoming “Future First” youth innovation campaign.
“Coen isn’t just an incredible athlete — he’s a visionary,” said Samsung CMO Yoon-Min Park in a press release. “His story, leadership, and charisma make him the perfect face of our next-gen outreach.”
Carr’s on-court numbers are equally dazzling: averaging 18.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game last season, he’s projected as a lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. But it’s what he’s doing off the court that’s capturing national attention.
A Heart as Big as His Vertical
In a remarkable display of generosity and purpose, Carr announced he will donate $11 million of his endorsement windfall to two causes close to his heart: $5 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and $6 million to “Grace Haven,” a Michigan-based orphanage that supported him in his early teens.
“I know what it feels like to be overlooked. To wonder where your next opportunity, or even your next meal, is coming from,” Carr said during a press conference at the Breslin Center Friday morning. “This isn’t just about me making history. It’s about making a difference.”
The donation to Boys & Girls Clubs will fund new sports and tech centers in underserved communities across Michigan and neighboring states. The Grace Haven contribution will support the construction of a new dormitory, full-time counseling services, and educational scholarships.
Community Impact and National Reaction
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo praised Carr not only as a player but as a “once-in-a-generation leader.”
“Coen represents everything we want Spartan basketball to be about — grit, humility, and giving back,” Izzo said. “He’s turning success into service, and that’s powerful.”
Social media exploded with praise following the announcement. NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Damian Lillard reposted Carr’s speech, with Lillard calling him “the future — both on and off the court.”
As the Spartans prepare for a season with national title hopes, Coen Carr stands tall — not just as a powerhouse forward, but as a symbol of what modern athletes can achieve beyond the scoreboard.
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