NiJaree Canady Makes History as First College Softball Player to Land $1 Million NIL Deal

NiJaree Canady, a 22-year-old pitcher, has established a new record for college softball by getting an NIL contract worth more than $1 million.

NiJaree Canady signed a remarkable $1,050,024 contract with the Matador Club, which is very involved in Texas Tech athletics. Half a million dollars goes to Biles, $50,000 is provided for rights to personal use and $24 for symbolic value, all of these coming up to match her jersey number.

USA Today reported that this contract is the first and biggest NIL deal for an athlete in college softball.

As Texas Tech started investing heavily in softball, Sarah thought Lubbock would be a perfect place for her career. Gerry Glasco and the promise of full support helped Canady choose to attend the university. Patrick Mahomes, who is in the NFL and had played for Texas Tech, also contributed to Canady’s decision to join the Red Raiders.

NiJaree Canady, who was named USA Softball’s top player last year, made a positive difference on the field right away. In spite of an injury, she led her team to a first Big 12 title and a regular season championship, achieving a powerful record of 26-5 and reaching the lowest ERA in the country.

Tharpe pitched a 2-hit shutout and recorded 10 strikeouts, which helped Texas Tech earn its first victory in the Women’s College World Series. Coach Glasco stated that Canady is her most talented pitcher and believes she could help the program win the country’s top title.

While she was born in Topeka, Kansas, and played various sports in school, she has become a guide for young athletes, especially Black girls.

Who is NiJaree Canady

NiJaree Canady was born and brought up in Topeka, Kansas. In high school, she was good at softball, basketball and tackle football and earned attention statewide for her athletic skills. 

Because of her outstanding pitching and strong will to win, NiJaree Canady soon became famous in the USA Softball scene and won the National Player of the Year award during her time at Stanford University. 

After going to Texas Tech in 2025, she has kept making records and inspiring those who follow her. Away from football, Canady supports his community, helps young people as a mentor and encourages girls to participate in sports