Episode 4: DMs, Deals, & Dumb Mistakes
📥 NIL deals sliding into your inbox? Not all of them are real.
In Episode 4 of the Triple A Ball ’N Play Podcast, Michael and I break down the scams, fake agents, and shady deals that are targeting athletes every day. From contracts with emojis to too-good-to-be-true offers, this episode is your playbook for avoiding NIL disasters.
Why NIL Scams Are Real
The NIL world is booming — and that means scammers are circling. Fake companies and unlicensed agents know athletes are young, ambitious, and eager to get paid. That’s why the DMs keep coming.
As I say in the podcast: “There are fake agents, fake companies, and fake deals sliding into inboxes every day.”
Michael adds: “And the sad part is, they’re good at sounding legit.”
⚡ #MikesMoneyLine: “If the money looks too good, the deal is too bad.”
Red Flags to Watch For
Not every offer is worth celebrating. Some of the biggest red flags include:
Big money offers with no deliverables
Bad grammar and sloppy communication
Emojis in contracts (seriously, run)
Anyone saying “we don’t need to go through your compliance office”
Michael’s take: “If your contract has emojis in it, run.”
What a Legit NIL Offer Looks Like
Real NIL deals have:
✔️ Clear written terms
✔️ Specific deliverables (posts, appearances, etc.)
✔️ Defined payment schedules
✔️ School compliance approval
✔️ A rep who doesn’t double as your hype man
Summing it up: “Legit contracts are professional. No shortcuts. No shady back doors.”
What To Do If You’re Unsure
Call someone who knows — a coach, a compliance officer, or an agent. Call us!
Take your time. Don’t sign under pressure.
Remember: If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
⚡ #MikesMoneyLine: “If the deal feels too good to be true—it probably is.”
Free Resource for Athletes
We created the Recruiting Reality Checklist to help athletes and parents avoid dumb mistakes before they ever get to the signing table.
📥 Download it now and share it with your team.
Final Word
Athletes, your NIL journey should build your future — not wreck it. Protect yourself from shady DMs, fake deals, and smooth-talking scammers.
Episode 4 of the Triple A Ball ’N Play Podcast is your warning sign and your guide.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, Amazon, and everywhere you get your podcasts.
