Seth Trimble Turns Down $8.2 Million NIL Offer from NC State, Reaffirms Loyalty to Tar Heels
In a stunning and electrifying moment that sent shockwaves through college basketball, UNC shooting guard Seth Trimble has made headlines nationwide by turning down an eye-popping $8.2 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal from bitter in-state rival NC State. The announcement, made during a surprise post-practice media session at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has since set social media ablaze and galvanized Tar Heel fans.
With reporters and teammates gathered courtside, Trimble’s voice rang out loud and clear: “I’m not going anywhere. This is home.” His declaration was met with a thunderous eruption of cheers from fans and teammates alike, cementing his place not only as a top-tier athlete, but as a symbol of loyalty in an era increasingly defined by big-money deals and rapid player movement.
Trimble, a rising junior, has been a cornerstone of UNC’s recent resurgence under Head Coach Hubert Davis. Known for his relentless defense, explosive athleticism, and rapidly improving offensive game, he has become a fan favorite and a respected leader in the locker room. Still, few expected him to reject such a massive NIL offer—reportedly the largest ever made by NC State to a single player.
The deal would have likely involved a transfer to NC State along with endorsement opportunities, appearances, and significant branding partnerships. For many athletes, such an offer would be impossible to refuse. But for Trimble, the value of loyalty and legacy at Carolina outweighed any financial incentive.
Coach Hubert Davis, visibly emotional during the press conference, praised Trimble’s commitment: “Seth just showed the heart of a true Tar Heel. He’s more than a player—he’s a culture-setter. And I’ll say it here and now: I’m going to transform him into a first-round NBA draft pick. Period.”
Davis’s promise was met with another round of applause, and the message was clear—this isn’t just about basketball. Trimble’s decision has become a rallying point for UNC and a statement about what the program stands for: tradition, character, and a commitment to building something meaningful over time.
The move comes at a time when college athletics is being rapidly reshaped by NIL deals, the transfer portal, and an increasingly professionalized model of athlete compensation. While many applaud players’ ability to profit from their brand, others worry about the erosion of school loyalty and team continuity.
Trimble’s bold choice offers a counter-narrative. It reminds fans and players alike that, sometimes, legacy, community, and belief in a team’s mission still matter. UNC alumni and former players quickly took to social media to praise Trimble. Even NBA stars with Tar Heel roots, like Coby White and Harrison Barnes, sent public messages of support.
As UNC gears up for what is now an even more highly anticipated season, one thing is clear: Seth Trimble isn’t just playing for wins—he’s playing for something bigger. And Chapel Hill couldn’t be prouder.
