UNLV Athletics got themselves into an intense situation on Wednesday.
Quarterback Matthew Skula made a stunning announcement. The quarterback intended to redshirt and leave the program over issues regarding his NIL deal.
Skula claimed he never received payments for a deal he signed in February. An ESPN.com report revealed the dispute is over an NIL offer of $100,000. His father told ESPN.com that Rebels head coach Barry Odom “later said in a phone conversation that the offer wasn’t valid because it didn’t come from him, but rather from offensive coordinator Brennan Marion.”
UNLV responded to the situation with an announcement of its own.
Here’s the statement from UNLV Athletics. pic.twitter.com/FwoKX9NU2V
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) September 25, 2024
“Football player Matthew Skula’s representative made financial demands upon the University and its NIL collective in order to continue playing,” they said in a written statement. “UNLV Athletics interpreted these demands as a violation o 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 Skula.”
They continued: “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.”
The sports world reacted to this absurd situation after their announcement went live.
This should be an example for all athletes, don’t take ANYTHING on a handshake deal. Get it in writing or prepare to never see it and have your name dragged through the mud. smh https://t.co/s7tyjgIHOh
— Jacob M. (@ItsMillertyme) September 25, 2024
“previously agreed upon *scholarships*” feels like it’s doing a lot of work here https://t.co/OQ950sBEMJ
— Zach (@ZWal93) September 25, 2024
I think UNLV may have just won its last football game ever https://t.co/qsbwqdzLkb
— Casey Shaw (@Casey_Shaw_) September 25, 2024
Coach Tark is rolling over in his grave. @DanWetzel https://t.co/EIIc4mGBsJ
— Troy Hunter (@troybhunter) September 25, 2024
