Notre Dame Volleyball Head Coach Salima Rockwell , Who Recently Signed a $125M NIL Deal, Rejects a historic Nil Deal of $224M Offer from Kentucky Wildcats: ‘My Loyalty Lies with Notre Dame” This Is Home.’”…
In an unprecedented turn of events in the world of collegiate athletics, Notre Dame Volleyball Head Coach Salima Rockwell has rejected a staggering $224 million NIL offer from the University of Kentucky. The historic deal, which would have made her one of the highest-compensated figures in NCAA sports, was turned down with a resounding declaration of loyalty to the Fighting Irish.
Rockwell, who recently inked a $125 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Notre Dame—an eye-opening figure in its own right—made it clear that no amount of money could sway her devotion to the program she has worked tirelessly to build. “My loyalty lies with Notre Dame,” Rockwell said in a statement on Friday. “This is home. I came here with a mission, and I intend to see it through.”
The offer from Kentucky reportedly included extensive NIL-based incentives, national marketing campaigns, and luxury perks aimed at luring the accomplished coach to Lexington. However, Rockwell’s decision reflects a growing trend among top-tier coaches and athletes who prioritize institutional culture, legacy, and personal alignment over financial gain.
Under Rockwell’s leadership, Notre Dame volleyball has seen a meteoric rise in national rankings and recruiting prowess. Her presence has sparked increased fan engagement and a surge in donor contributions to the university’s athletic programs. Many credit her vision and leadership as the cornerstone of Notre Dame’s resurgence on the volleyball court.
Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick praised Rockwell’s unwavering commitment. “Salima is more than a coach—she’s a transformational leader,” he said. “We are incredibly proud of her integrity and her decision to stay true to her values and to this community.”
