Nationwide — NiJaree Canady, a 22-year-old African American woman, has become the first college softball athlete to sign a million-dollar NIL deal. She moved from Stanford to Texas Tech and landed a record $1,050,024 contract.
Canady’s transfer to Texas Tech brought in the biggest Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal ever in college softball. Matador Club, tied to the university, gave her a one-year contract worth over $1 million, $1 million in direct payment, $50,000 for living expenses, and $24 to match her jersey number, according to USA Today.
Canady, the current USA Softball National Player of the Year, entered the transfer portal just days before Coach Gerry Glasco was hired. He moved quickly to recruit her, with help from NFL quarterback and Texas Tech alum Patrick Mahomes. Glasco promised not just a place in the lineup but also more chances to hit and grow her all-around game.
The university’s softball program had already seen big support from donors, with millions invested in upgrades. While the contract raised eyebrows, Canady said the coaching staff and vision for the team played a bigger role in her decision.
She found the shift from Palo Alto to Lubbock easy, saying Texas reminded her more of home. She also liked how much time Glasco spent helping her improve her hitting, which she said other schools hadn’t prioritized.
Despite a minor injury, Canady had a breakout season. She led the Red Raiders to their first Big 12 regular-season and conference titles with a 26-5 record and the nation’s best ERA of 0.86. She also delivered a 2-hit shutout with 10 strikeouts to win Texas Tech’s first Women’s College World Series game.
Coach Glasco says Canady is the best pitcher he’s ever coached. He sees her leading the team to a national title.
Off the field, Canady hopes to inspire the next generation. She enjoys signing autographs and dreams of helping young girls learn to hit.
Born in Topeka, Kansas, Canady was a multisport athlete in high school, playing softball, basketball, and even tackle football.