No, Trey Kaufman-Renn Did Not Sign a $109 Million Deal with Michigan – Here’s the Real Story
In recent days, social media platforms have erupted with a viral headline claiming that Purdue forward Trey Kaufman-Renn has signed a 4-year, $109 million contract with Big Ten rival Michigan. The eye-catching nature of the deal – a staggering salary usually reserved for NBA superstars – left many fans stunned, confused, and searching for answers.
Let’s set the record straight: the report is entirely false. There has been no official announcement from Purdue, Michigan, the NCAA, or any credible media outlet confirming such a move. Furthermore, the idea that a current college basketball player could sign a $109 million contract, especially one transferring within the NCAA system, defies the basic rules of collegiate athletics.
Who is Trey Kaufman-Renn?
Trey Kaufman-Renn, a 6’9” power forward from Sellersburg, Indiana, has made a name for himself as one of the premier players in the Big Ten. As of the 2024–25 season, Kaufman-Renn was a standout for the Purdue Boilermakers, averaging 20.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Known for his footwork in the post, soft shooting touch, and defensive grit, Kaufman-Renn emerged as one of Purdue’s most dependable players.
He was named First-Team All-Big Ten and was a three-time recipient of the Big Ten Player of the Week award. His efforts played a pivotal role in Purdue’s strong conference run and national contention throughout the season.
The Contract Rumor – What Likely Sparked It?
The now-debunked rumor appears to have originated from a fan-made graphic or parody post, which rapidly spread across platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Instagram. The post falsely claimed Kaufman-Renn had accepted a $109 million deal with Michigan — a headline more fitting for an NBA All-Star than a student-athlete.
In today’s age of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements, it’s true that college athletes can earn substantial sums. Some top football and basketball players reportedly earn six- or even seven-figure NIL deals. But those deals are not official contracts with schools, and certainly nowhere near the $100 million range.
Current Status: Still at Purdue
As of July 2025, Trey Kaufman-Renn remains enrolled at Purdue University and is expected to finish his senior season as one of the cornerstones of the Boilermakers’ program. He has shown no public intention of entering the transfer portal or switching allegiance to Michigan — one of Purdue’s fiercest rivals.
While the Wolverines are always active in recruiting top-tier talent, there has been no indication from Michigan’s basketball staff that Kaufman-Renn is being pursued as a transfer or signing any kind of deal with them.
What’s Next for Kaufman-Renn?
If he chooses, Kaufman-Renn could declare for the 2026 NBA Draft, where he’s projected as a second-round pick with upside due to his size, efficiency, and maturity. Alternatively, he could explore professional options overseas or through the NBA G League. Either way, any professional contract would only be possible after his college eligibility ends.
Final Word
Trey Kaufman-Renn has had a phenomenal career at Purdue, and while the idea of a $109 million contract with Michigan is headline-worthy, it’s nothing more than a viral hoax. The truth is more grounded — and equally impressive. Kaufman-Renn remains a key figure in Purdue basketball’s continued success and is positioning himself for a legitimate professional career, on his own terms.
