UNLV Rejects Circa's $100,000 Offer to Keep QB Sluka
Date: 2024-09-27 Author: Alex Crawford Categories: SPORTS BETTING, PEOPLE
Quarterback Matthew Sluka, who transferred to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas from Holy Cross, has announced his decision to sit out the remainder of the 2024 season. The primary reason for his departure was the university's failure to honor a verbal agreement to pay $100,000 for his name, image, and likeness (NIL). Despite efforts by Circa CEO Derek Stevens and VP of Operations Mike Palm to try to step in and cover the fee, UNLV rejected the offer, stating that Sluka's decision had already been made.
Sluka's agent, Marcus Cromartie, said the NIL payment was originally promised by an assistant coach during a recruiting process. Sluka’s move to UNLV raised expectations for the team’s success, especially after a strong start to the 2024 season that included wins over two Big 12 teams. The quarterback’s decision to leave the team and enter the transfer portal came as a shock to both players and fans.
To keep Sluka on the team, Circa Sports, known for supporting Las Vegas sports events, offered $100,000, according to The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Palm, in his comments, noted that he and Stevens believed it made sense to financially support playoff-bound teams, as UNLV had a good chance of qualifying for an expanded College Football Playoff. However, the university quickly responded that Sluka’s departure was final and any potential agreement was off the table.
Sluka’s departure also raised questions about the NIL’s issues. While Circa’s offer failed to prevent his departure, it was seen as a successful PR strategy. The resort and casino chain, known for its support of local sports, demonstrated its commitment to the community and its hopes for UNLV’s continued success under head coach Barry Oda. UNLV has experienced a resurgence in recent years, and the team’s three-win start to the season has brought even more attention to the team.
Slouka’s case was an important reminder of the challenges facing the NIL system, which was instituted by the NCAA three years ago. NIL compensation has become a significant factor in recruiting and transfers, creating a highly competitive environment for schools. Slouka’s experience at UNLV, where promises were made but not kept, highlights the importance of honoring financial commitments in the rapidly changing world of college sports.
