Texas volleyball superstar Madisen Skinner signs massive NIL deal with grocery giant H-E-B
Skinner, grocery chain will team up to donate money to local nonprofit to fight child hunger
Name, image and likeness deals aren’t just for football players. Texas volleyball superstar Madisen Skinner has signed a deal with grocery giant H-E-B for the upcoming season that will highlight one of the Longhorns’ best women’s athletes.
This is the first NIL of any kind for the Texas-based grocery chain. “Madi” Skinner calls herself a “lifelong H-E-B devotee” in a statement released by the company.
“At H-E-B, we’ve always believed in the power of community and the importance of nurturing local talent,” said Ashwin Nathan, H-E-B Group vice president of marketing and payments. “We’re thrilled to welcome Madi to the H-E-B family and can’t wait to see the positive impact we’ll make together.”
H-E-B and Skinner will start their partnership by presenting a $10,000 donation to Brighter Bites, a nonprofit fighting childhood hunger in Texas. The check presentation will come during a charitable event at Del Valle ISD’s Popham Elementary School on Sept. 3.
H-E-B has been a longtime supporter of Brighter Bites, which provides fresh foods, fruits and vegetables directly to families in need.
“Growing up in Texas, H-E-B has always been a big part of my family’s life,” Skinner said in a statement. “It has always been more than just a grocery store to us and I have lots of fond childhood memories.
“To be their first NIL partner and to represent female college athletes is an absolute honor,” she added. “This partnership aligns perfectly with my values of hard work, community service, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. I’m thrilled to work with H-E-B to make a positive impact both on and off the court.”
In YouTube videos posted to H-E-B’s channel, Skinner is seen around campus being followed by the Longhorn Band and UT’s mascot. It’s a sign that Skinner’s deal was signed in conjunction with the Texas athletic department, as the “Texas Fight” song is played throughout the spot.
Skinner will make personal appearances at various H-E-B stores that will be announced at a later date.
The Longhorns enter the 2024 volleyball season ranked No. 1 in the AVCA preseason coaches’ poll and were picked to win the SEC by the league’s coaches.
Skinner is a huge reason for that. She was named the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player last year when the Longhorns won their second straight national title. She led the Horns with 547 kills and ranked sixth nationally with 4.8 kills per set.
