S1 EP 3: Armando Bacot

In this episode of NILOSOPHY, Deja Kelly sits down with Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, for an unfiltered interview. From dominating at UConn to navigating injuries, NIL deals, and building a brand off the court -- Paige shares it all.🔥 In this episode:Why Paige left UConn after five yearsHow she built a multi-million dollar NIL brand from scratchThe real business behind NIL deals, social media, and agentsWhat it’s like to get drafted and play for the Dallas WingsBehind-the-scenes stories from working with Nike, Gatorade, Verizon & moreWhy she’s fighting for change in the WNBA's next CBAPaige also reflects on the power of relationships, her coach Geno Auriemma’s evolution in the NIL era, and the real mental toll of being a public figure at the top of the game.

Track star. Social media phenom. Future Olympian? In this episode of NILOSOPHY, Deja Kelly sits down with University of Texas standout Sam Hurley for his most personal and revealing conversation yet. From earning millions of followers online to navigating the highs and lows of NIL deals, collectives, and brand partnerships, Sam breaks down his journey as a student-athlete and digital creator — and why he’s transferring for his final season. Sam opens up about: Growing up in Arkansas and his journey to D1 track stardom His decision to enroll early at Texas to capitalize on NILSigning with WME (via Livvy Dunne’s recommendation!) Why he’s leaving UT for a fresh start The truth about collectives and the business behind college athletics Building a 6M+ follower brand from scratch His dream of competing at the LA 2028 Olympics Whether you're an athlete, creator, or brand builder — this one’s a masterclass in identity, ownership, and the modern athlete's mindset. Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of sports, business, and culture.

In this exclusive Nilosophy interview, the Syracuse commit opens up about:His transition from high school to college basketballBalancing life as an athlete, entrepreneur, and influencerLaunching his own clothing brand at 16The business advice he’s learned from Carmelo and La La AnthonyBuilding generational wealth and navigating NIL dealsStaying mentally sharp while handling fame, family, and pressureFrom moments on the court to million-follower milestones off it, Kiyan is a rising star who understands the business of basketball. Hear how he’s crafting his own path — on his terms.

In this powerful episode, host Deja Kelly sits down with Chloe Pavlech — former Maryland point guard turned media powerhouse, coach and now Chief Growth Officer at Unrivaled — to unpack her journey from college athlete to women’s sports trailblazer and what she sees as the future for players with NIL being so prevalent. Chloe opens up about:- Her transition from basketball player to coach at UConn- Building She Hoops Network from a passion project to a media acquisition via Overtime- Landing a role at Overtime and becoming “Overtime Chloe”- Her work with Unrivaled and the mission to empower pro women athletes- The rise of NIL, digital real estate, and how young athletes can own their brand- Her #1 piece of advice for college athletes: “Get a financial advisor — and watch your money.”This episode is a must-watch for aspiring sports professionals, athletes navigating NIL, and anyone passionate about women’s sports, brand building, and betting on yourself.

On this episode of Nilosophy, WNBA star Deja Kelly sits down with someone who knows her better than most—her own agent, Cecil White. Together, they break down the real business of being a college athlete turned pro, diving deep into NIL deals, equity partnerships, personal branding, and what it really takes to succeed off the court. Whether you're an athlete, creator, or future agent, this is your inside look at how the best deals get made—and how to build a brand that lasts. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Nilosophy—where game meets game plan. 

In this episode of NILOSOPHY, Deja Kelly sits down with Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Head Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin—better known as Coach Yo—for an honest, powerful conversation about the evolving world of NIL and what it really means for women’s college basketball. From building athlete brands to navigating recruiting in the NIL era, Coach Yo breaks down how she’s helping her players win on and off the court. She opens up about what leadership looks like today, how she’s adapting to this new era of college sports, and why female athletes deserve a seat at the table when it comes to business. Whether you're a hoop fan, athlete, or just curious about how NIL is reshaping the game—this episode is a must-watch. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes of NILOSOPHY with Deja Kelly as she interviews athletes, coaches, and execs shaping the future of college sports. #NILOSOPHY #DejaKelly #CoachYo #OleMiss #NIL #WomensBasketball #CollegeBasketball #NCAA #AthleteBranding #WomenInSportsNILOSOPHY is a Front Office Sports Network show. The show offers an inside look at the world of NIL (name, image, and likeness) from the perspective of the athletes and executives navigating this quickly evolving landscape. New episodes release every other Friday and can be found on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and the FOS website.

In this episode, Gabriela Jaquez, UCLA Basketball Star and Mexico National Team Member, joins Deja ahead of her Final Four appearance. Gabriela shares her experience being a Mexican-American basketball player, a dual sport athlete, and creating a scholarship fund with her brother Jaime Jaquez Jr.NILOSOPHY is a Front Office Sports Network show. The show offers an inside look at the world of NIL (name, image, and likeness) from the perspective of the athletes and executives navigating this quickly evolving landscape. New episodes release every other Friday and can be found on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and the FOS website.

In this Season 2 Tip-Off, Raven Johnson, 2x NCAA Basketball National Champion on the South Carolina Gamecocks, sits down with Deja to discuss buying her mom a car, her favorite NIL deal, and playing with the boys at the Allen Iverson Classic.NILOSOPHY is a Front Office Sports Network show. The show offers an inside look at the world of NIL (name, image, and likeness) from the perspective of the athletes and executives navigating this quickly evolving landscape. New episodes release every other Friday and can be found on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and the FOS website.

On this week's episode, NILOSOPHY host Deja Kelly sits down with WNBA Rookie of the Year and former South Carolina Basketball star Aliyah Boston. Deja and Aliyah discuss Aliyah's new broadcasting gig, transitioning to the WNBA, Coach Staley, credit scores, and more!

On this week's episode, our host Deja Kelly chats with fellow North Carolina Tar Heel and 2x All-ACC hooper Armando Bacot. Armando shares his experience making it to the National Championship, deleting social media during the season, and using his business degree to navigate investing and NIL deals.