AUSTIN, Texas — For its first-ever Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal, H-E-B was on a quest to partner with one of Texas' best athletes. Who they got was one of the best in the nation.
H-E-B announced Wednesday that it has partnered with Texas Volleyball star Madison "Madi" Skinner for its first N-I-L deal.
"At H-E-B, we’ve always believed in the power of community and the importance of nurturing local talent. Partnering with Madisen Skinner isn’t just about aligning with a star athlete, it’s about championing the values that make Texas great: hard work, dedication, and a commitment to giving back," said Ashwin Nathan, H-E-B Group Vice President of Marketing & Payments.
Skinner, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin, is a native Texan and "lifelong H-E-B devotee" with three NCAA championships under her belt with Texas Volleyball. She also ranks as the fifth-best player nationally in points per set.
"Growing up in Texas, H-E-B has always been a big part of my family’s life. It has always been more than just a grocery store to us and I have lots of fond childhood memories. To be their first NIL partner and to represent female college athletes is an absolute honor," Skinner said. "This partnership aligns perfectly with my values of hard work, community service, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. I’m thrilled to work with H-E-B to make a positive impact both on and off the court."
Skinner will kick off her partnership with H-E-B with a charitable event at Del Valle ISD's Popham Elementary School on Sept. 3. There, Skinner will interact with young athletes, gift some of her favorite H-E-B items and present a $10,000 donation to Brighter Bites, a nonprofit that fights childhood hunger in Texas by providing fresh foods directly to families in need.
H-E-B said throughout the partnership, Skinner will make appearances at various UT and H-E-B events, to be announced at a later date.