Kansas Athletics, home of the Jayhawks’ varsity sports teams, and Ripple have entered a multi-year partnership that will place the $XRP logo on all Jayhawks team uniforms, creating the first crypto jersey patch sponsorship for a major college athletics program, according to a Wednesday statement.
Athletics Director Travis Goff said that the deal underscores the need for innovative partnerships in college sports.
“This era of college athletics demands innovative, forward-thinking partnerships,” Goff stated. “Ripple recognizes the unique reach and passion of the Jayhawk community, and we’re proud they have chosen Kansas Athletics as a premier platform to introduce $XRP to millions of sports fans. Having the $XRP logo displayed on our Jayhawk uniforms reflects a shared commitment to innovation and excellence.”
The deal, announced in partnership with Learfield, also includes branding across athletic facilities, digital properties and game-day signage.
“This partnership with Ripple highlights the extraordinary collaboration between Learfield and Kansas Athletics, integrating $XRP branding into unforgettable moments and incredible experiences for Jayhawks fans,” Cole Gahagan, President and CEO of Learfield, commented on the partnership.
Under the agreement, Ripple will support financial literacy and technology education initiatives for student-athletes and students, including digital asset education, while expanding career opportunities for University of Kansas graduates through its technology recruitment efforts.
“This is a great time for student-athletes to be at Kansas, and today’s announcement is another indication of that,” Kansas Women’s Basketball Coach Brandon Schneider noted. “Our department is always looking for ways to innovate and be different and that is exciting to be part of.”
