LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — An agent for UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka said a big-money promise of $100,000 in NIL payments was broken, according to an ESPN report on Wednesday. UNLV denies there was ever a promise.
Sluka announced he wouldn’t play any more games for the Rebels after leading the team to a 3-0 start and a No. 23 ranking — the first time UNLV had ever broken the Top 25. Sluka transferred to UNLV from the College of Holy Cross in January.
“I have decided to utilize my redshirt year and will not be playing in any additional games this season. I committed to UNLV based on certain representations that were made to me, which were not upheld after I enrolled,” Sluka said in a post on the X social media platform.
“Despite discussions, it became clear that these commitments would not be fulfilled in the future. I wish my teammates the best of luck this season and hope for the continued success of the program,” Sluka said.
The agreement was apparently verbal and was never put in writing. NIL — Name, Image, Likeness — agreements are not handled directly by universities. ESPN identified Blueprint Sports as the company that manages UNLV’s NIL collective.
On Wednesday afternoon, running back Michael Allen posted on X that he was also sitting out.
“After 3 games, I have decided to utilize my redshirt & enter the portal at the end of the season as a RS JR. I’m grateful for UNLV & wish them nothing but success. Expectations for opportunities unfortunately were not met & I am excited to continue my football career,” Allen said.
Allen isn’t a starter and offered no further details on his decision.
UNLV issued a response to Sluka’s decision late Wednesday morning:
“Football player Matthew Sluka’s representative made financial demands upon the University and its NIL collective in order to continue playing. UNLV Athletics interpreted these demands as a violation of the NCAA pay-for-play rules, as well as Nevada state law. UNLV does not engage in such activity, nor does it respond to implied threats. UNLV has honored all previously agreed-upon scholarships for Matthew Sluka,” according to the statement.
“UNLV has conducted its due diligence and will continue to operate its programs within the framework of NCAA rules and regulations, as well as Nevada state laws,” UNLV said.
ESPN’s report identified Marcus Cromartie of Equity Sports as Sluka’s NIL representative. He said Sluka received only $3,000. ESPN interviewed Sluka’s father, who said UNLV offensive coordinator Brennan Marion made the offer.
The $3,000 payment was described as relocation costs.
Sluka’s decision to sit out puts senior quarterbacks Hajj-Malik Williams and Cameron Friel in the spotlight as UNLV prepares to take on Fresno State Saturday at Allegiant Stadium.
Claims surrounding the situation could have wider impact on what happens with NIL payments in the future.
The current bylaws of the NCAA state that “name, image and likeness activities may not be used as an inducement for an individual to enroll or remain enrolled at a specific institution.” While schools are allowed to “provide assistance and services” to players in finding NIL opportunities, they are not allowed to compensate them directly.