The Name, Image, and Likeness deal since its introduction in 2021 has benefited athletes a lot. While there is no denying that the NCAA is still to find its long-term impact, it certainly gives college and high school athletes (in states where NIL is permitted) to invest in their craft and make themselves better at their games. Secondly, it is a playground for athletes to know how their hard work has translated outside the court. Two such athletes who were competing for the top spot were LeBron James‘s younger son Bryce James and the Montverde Academy star Cooper Flagg.

However, one step taken by Flagg changed it all and it benefited both Flagg and Bryce. But, what is this step, and what impact did it have on their NILs?

Cooper Flagg’s move benefits Bryce James 

Flagg used to occupy the top spot in high school NIL rankings with an evaluation of $1.4 million whereas Bryce was positioned at the second spot with a NIL valuation of $1.2 million. But then Flagg was involved in his recruitment activities. And this changed it all for both. 

Flagg chose to commit to the Duke Blue Devils under coach Jon Scheyer in October 2023 over offers from the University of Connecticut Huskies. This came as a surprise since the UConn were previous season winner. UConn would also go onto win another title in the 2023-24 season. Well, Flagg chose to have his college play with the Blue Devils. This transferred him to the list of college basketball NIL rankings.

Flagg as of now with his $1.4 million valuation leads the college basketball rankings list. More so, since Bronny James who is Bryce’s elder brother decided to go for the NBA 2024 draft. And Flagg chose to go to college. With this, Bryce became the NIL leader among high school basketballers with his $1.2 million, as per on3.com. From the looks of it, it seems that Bryce is trying to upkeep his older brother’s legacy. Bronny James stood at the top of the NIL rankings for College athletes. What Bronny did at the College level is what Bryce is trying to replicate at the high school level.

Currently, Flagg is positioned at the 10th spot in NIL rankings for all college sports. The other players lurking in the high school rankings are two pretty famous stars.

Who else is in the high school basketball NIL rankings apart from Bryce James?

While Bryce is at the top, another famous basketballer is Cameron Boozer. Boozer is positioned at the third spot though he has an undisclosed NIL value in the On3 rankings. As per a recent change in law, the Florida State high school athletes could also cash in on their NILs which helped Boozer’s case a lot. Boozer currently plies his trade for the Christopher Columbus school in Florida.

The second spot is occupied by AJ Dybantsa. Though Dybantsa has amassed a significant 148K followers on Instagram yet, he is still to make an impact in the mainstream media as large as Boozer or Bryce. Boozer’s fans would be hoping that he soon crosses Dybantsa.

Meanwhile, Flagg’s decision to go to college had a large impact on the valuations, and hopefully, for his fans, he will continue to be positioned at the top spot in college basketball rankings. At the same, Bryce can also show his clout by amassing more brands and endorsements and making more money. 

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the Reese-Clark rivalry and more, watch this video.