Maryland Athletics just announced a pretty unusual Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal featuring Terrapins’ starting quarterback, Malik Washington. This partnership brings together Washington, Pepsi, and Ledo Pizza, weaving their brands into a marketing campaign that covers social media, in-stadium branding, and custom content.
It’s a move that puts Washington more in the spotlight, while also giving Pepsi and Ledo Pizza a bigger presence in the Maryland community.
The Power of Local Partnerships
Pepsi and Ledo Pizza aren’t just random sponsors at the University of Maryland. They’re everywhere—Pepsi fills the campus and every Maryland Athletics venue, and Ledo Pizza is a staple at SECU Stadium.
This season, they’re teaming up with Malik Washington to create something a little more engaging for fans.
Malik Washington: The Face of the Campaign
Malik Washington, the starting quarterback and a Glen Burnie native, seems like a natural fit as the ambassador for this campaign. His local background and talent make him a solid pick to represent brands tied so closely to Maryland pride.
Washington’s part in the campaign includes creating official content in his Maryland gear, getting involved in stadium events, and even rolling out his own pizza on the concessions menu.
A 360-Degree Marketing Initiative
This is the first time these brands have tried such an all-encompassing marketing approach together. Maryland Athletics, through their in-house NIL agency One Maryland, helped set up the deal to benefit everyone involved.
The campaign will include:
- Social Media Integration: Washington will post content across different social platforms, showing off his work with Pepsi and Ledo Pizza.
- In-Stadium Branding: Fans will notice Pepsi and Ledo Pizza logos all over SECU Stadium.
- Exclusive Content: Washington will create special content in full Terrapin uniform, keeping things authentic.
Specialty Pizza: “Malik’s Way”
Maybe the most fun part of this deal is the specialty pizza called “Malik’s Way.” Fans can grab this new creation—a classic Ledo Pizza drizzled with Hot Honey—at several Ledo Pizza spots inside SECU Stadium.
It’s a fresh twist for game day, and honestly, it sounds pretty tasty.
Pepsi’s Growing Investment in NIL Partnerships
This partnership highlights Pepsi’s growing interest in working with student-athletes. By teaming up with Maryland Athletics and Malik Washington, Pepsi isn’t just pushing its drinks—it’s backing local talent too.
It fits with Pepsi’s “Local Eats Deserve Pepsi” push, which celebrates favorite local restaurants across the country.
Building Excitement for Gameday
The goal here is to ramp up excitement for game day and make the whole fan experience better. From pregame tailgates to the energy inside the stadium, this partnership is all about connecting with fans at every turn.
Pepsi and Ledo Pizza will have a strong presence throughout SECU Stadium, helping set the vibe for everyone there.
A Model for Future NIL Deals
Mandy Allendorfer, Executive Director of One Maryland NIL, called out how this collaboration shows the power of bringing together athletics, NIL programs, and company partners. The hope is that this deal could spark more opportunities at Maryland and maybe even elsewhere.
Strengthening Relationships
By teaming up with longtime partners like Pepsi and Ledo Pizza, Maryland Athletics is deepening relationships that really matter to fans and the football community. This collaboration is a nod to the strength of local loyalty and how it can boost both student-athletes and the brands that support them.
Conclusion
The NIL deal with Malik Washington, Pepsi, and Ledo Pizza is shaking things up. It’s not just another partnership—this one actually feels fresh.
Each group brings something unique to the table. There’s a sense that this could set a new standard for future NIL deals, though only time will tell.
Fans might be in for a season that’s a bit more lively, with new content and maybe a few surprises along the way. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love good pizza?
If you’re curious and want to dig into the details, check out the official announcement on the Maryland Athletics website.
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