In the fast-changing world of college sports, Network Advisory stands out as a key player helping athletes cash in on their name, image, and likeness (NIL). Founded by University of Florida graduate Justin Giangrande in 2020, this sports marketing agency guides high school and college stars through endorsement deals, brand building, and financial planning as NIL rules reshape the game.
The Evolution of NIL in College Sports
NIL policies kicked off in 2021, letting college athletes earn money from their personal brands for the first time. This shift has pumped billions into the system, with top players landing deals worth hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
Schools and agencies scrambled to adapt, but many athletes felt lost without proper guidance. Network Advisory stepped in to fill that gap, focusing on long-term success rather than quick cash grabs. Recent data shows NIL deals topped $1.5 billion in 2025 alone, driven by social media influence and fan support.
This growth ties into broader trends like the transfer portal, where players move teams freely, and direct payments from universities starting in 2025. Athletes now treat their careers like businesses, and agencies like Network Advisory provide the roadmap.
Justin Giangrande’s Journey to Founding Network Advisory
Justin Giangrande, a University of Florida alum, drew inspiration from sports films like Rudy and Jerry Maguire during his college days. He graduated amid championship wins in basketball and football, which fueled his passion for athlete management.
After interning at Priority Sports, Giangrande launched his own firm, NCLUSIVE, in 2010. He later joined VaynerSports in 2016, working with big names before starting Network Advisory in 2020. Based in Los Angeles with offices in New York, Miami, Charlotte, and Dallas, the agency keeps a small team of 15 to stay nimble.
Giangrande’s approach emphasizes personal branding and entertainment ties, including work with hip-hop artists. His advisory board, featuring figures like AJ Vaynerchuk and former UFC champion Vitor Belfort, boosts connections across industries.
How Network Advisory Helps Athletes Navigate NIL
Network Advisory acts as a full-service hub for elite athletes, handling marketing, public relations, and brand strategies. Unlike larger agencies, it targets high school prospects and college standouts, building foundations early.
The agency helps athletes secure deals that match their values and boost their profiles. For example, it connects players with brands in apparel, tech, and entertainment, ensuring compliance with NCAA rules.
Here are some key services offered by Network Advisory:
- Brand development to create lasting personal images.
- NIL deal negotiation for fair and profitable endorsements.
- Financial advice to manage earnings and plan for pro careers.
- Entertainment production for content like videos and social media campaigns.
This player-centric model sets it apart in a crowded field.
Star Athletes and Real-World Success Stories
Network Advisory boasts a roster of top talents, including Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway. The five-star recruit trusts the agency for his NIL deals, which have grown amid his on-field success.
Other clients include rising stars in football and basketball, with deals ranging from local sponsorships to national campaigns. In 2025, Lagway’s partnerships highlighted how effective guidance can turn talent into revenue.
| Athlete | Sport | Key NIL Achievement in 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| DJ Lagway | Football | Secured multiple endorsement deals worth over $500,000, including apparel and tech brands. |
| Other College Stars | Various | Built social media followings leading to brand partnerships and community events. |
| High School Prospects | Multiple | Early branding strategies resulting in college recruitment boosts and initial NIL income. |
These examples show how the agency turns potential into profit.
Challenges Facing NIL and Network Advisory’s Role
NIL brings opportunities but also pitfalls like unequal access for smaller schools and risks of exploitation. Some athletes face tax issues or bad deals without expert help.
Network Advisory tackles these by educating clients on smart choices and long-term planning. As private equity eyes college sports investments, the agency prepares athletes for a pro-like environment.
Looking ahead, with NIL evolving into revenue-sharing models by 2026, agencies must stay ahead. Network Advisory’s lean structure allows quick pivots, helping athletes thrive amid changes.
The Broader Impact on College Athletics
NIL has leveled the playing field in some ways, letting underdog programs attract talent through strong deals. Teams like Vanderbilt and Indiana used targeted NIL strategies for surprise 2025 seasons.
Yet, it widens gaps between big conferences and others. Network Advisory pushes for fair practices, advising on ethical branding that benefits communities.
Athletes gain independence, but they need trusted partners. Giangrande’s firm exemplifies how focused agencies can drive positive change in this new era.
What do you think about the rise of NIL in college sports? Share your thoughts in the comments below and pass this article along to fellow fans to keep the conversation going.
