In an era where college athletes are cashing in on lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, Nebraska women’s basketball star Jaz Shelley has made headlines for a different reason: turning down a staggering $15 million offer to remain with the Cornhuskers.
Shelley, a standout guard from Moe, Australia, has been a pivotal player for Nebraska. In February 2024, she led a remarkable comeback against No. 2 Iowa, scoring a season-high 23 points and securing the team’s first win over a Top 25 opponent that season . Her performance earned her the distinction of being Nebraska’s first Associated Press National College Women’s Basketball Player of the Week .
Despite the allure of a multimillion-dollar NIL deal, Shelley’s commitment to her team and university remained unwavering. Her decision is even more notable considering the challenges international athletes face with NIL opportunities. Due to her student visa status, Shelley was restricted from profiting off NIL deals while in the U.S., only being able to engage in such activities during visits to Australia .
After completing her collegiate career, Shelley was selected by the Phoenix Mercury in the third round of the 2024 WNBA Draft . Although she was waived shortly after, she continued her professional journey by signing with the Ballarat Miners and later with Geelong United in Australia’s NBL1 South league .
