Triumph NIL, Mike Jones Ford Lincoln sign partnership agreement
Hokies men’s basketball Justyn Mutts, football Malachi Thomas to promote dealership as part of NIL deal
[Blacksburg, VA, July 29, 2022] Triumph NIL today announced a partnership agreement with Mike Jones Ford Lincoln in Eastanollee, GA. As a result of the partnership, Triumph will oversee NIL marketing opportunities for the dealership involving Virginia Tech men’s basketball forward Justyn Mutts and football running back Malachi Thomas.
“It’s always an honor and a pleasure to support Virginia Tech athletes,” said Kevin Jones, Triumph partner and former Hokies football standout. “These car deals are an example of how we can leverage name, image, and likeness for student-athletes like Justyn and Malachi, who have excelled not only on the field, but also in the classroom. They are great representatives of the university and we’re proud to recognize them in this way.”
As part of the agreement, Mutts and Thomas will leverage their NIL rights to promote the dealership through a variety of personal appearances, content development programs, social media posts and live events. They will be compensated for their NIL rights in a compliant manner and within the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
“We are ecstatic to have Triumph assist us in navigating this NIL marketing opportunity,” said J. Pearson, Mike Jones Ford Lincoln owner. “Malachi and Justyn are ideally positioned to help us amplify our online brand presence and we are excited to get started.”
A Graduate Student in 2022-23, Mutts has become a fan-favorite across Hokie nation. His all-around quality play is only matched by his school pride and commitment to education. The Millville, NJ-native started all 36 games for the Hokies last season, averaging 10.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game while totaling a team-best 123 assists on the year. Among the many accolades following the Hokies ACC Tournament title, Mutts was honored with the 2022 Skip Prosser Award as the ACC Men’s Basketball Scholar Athlete of the Year.
“I’m really excited to be working with Mike Jones Ford Lincoln,” said Mutts. “I feel as though this is a relationship I can make successful now so that other Hokies may benefit in the future.”
A rising Sophomore, Thomas played in 12 games, starting three at running back and put his promise on full display with three touchdowns and 151 yards on 21 carries against Syracuse. On the year, he totaled 443 yards on 93 carries. The Hartwell, GA-native arrived on campus with high expectations as the 2019 Georgia AAAA Player of the Year following a season in which he gained 2,862 all-purpose yards and 36 touchdowns. The new coaching staff has been impressed with the way Thomas finishes his runs and have high expectations for him this Fall.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent Mike Jones Lincoln Ford,” said Thomas. “Though I play at Virginia Tech, I always feel love from those back home in Georgia. This is a true blessing.”
Triumph is ideally positioned to help student-athletes navigate the new and dynamic NIL landscape, to direct corporate clients in identifying specific athletes and building compelling campaigns that drive real results, and to offer platforms for supporters and fans to champion their favorite Hokie athletes.
About Triumph NIL
Triumph NIL is a unique and experienced sports marketing agency, specializing in building custom ‘Name, Image, Likeness’ (NIL) partnerships for collegiate student-athletes with members of the business community, supporters and fans. Triumph has the ability to work in a compliant manner with student athletes, is studied in Virginia State NIL law, familiar with NCAA compliance regulations, and experienced in the development of dynamic marketing partnership opportunities. Potential partners wishing to connect with Triumph athletes, or other student-athletes, can connect with the team at Triumph via info@triumphnil.com.
About Mike Jones Ford Lincoln
Mike Jones Ford Lincoln is waiting to help you in Eastanollee, GA. Serving drivers from Commerce to Lavonia and more, our friendly sales team can connect you to new models, used vehicles, affordable loans and leasing, and more. For detailed information about the dealership, visit MikeJonesFord.net.
###