How KU basketball star Gradey Dick used Wichita NIL deal to give back to Kansas charity

Taylor Eldridge
·2 min read
9

Kansas star freshman Gradey Dick has proven to be among the most savvy college basketball players in the name, image and likeness era.

Not only has he capitalized on NIL money-making opportunities for himself, but the Wichita native also made it a priority to use his platform and new-found abilities to help out charities in his hometown.

With help from Meritrust Credit Union, the former Collegiate and Sunrise standout formed “Gradey’s Gang,” his own philanthropic initiative aimed to benefit the youth of Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters.

“My parents always taught me when I was little, no matter what happens in life, how big you get, just stay grounded and remember where you come from and that’s Wichita for me,” Dick said. “The community helped raise me to become who I am today and that’s why I have to remember my beginnings and always remain humble.”

Dick averaged 14.1 points and broke the KU freshman record for three-pointers made in a season with 83. The 6-foot-8 guard is projected as a possible NBA Draft lottery pick, although he has yet to declare his intentions for next season.

But a highlight for him off the court was that Gradey’s Gang, along with Meritrust Credit Union, was able to invite three littles and their bigs to attend a KU basketball game for the first time. Not only did the children get to meet the KU star following the game, but they also received gift baskets that included a bobblehead of the Wichita native.

“It meant everything to have an opportunity like that,” Dick said. “I remember when I was a kid coming to KU games and dreaming about being like the basketball players and wanting to be in their shoes one day and how much joy they brought to fans. It’s crazy to think I was in their position and now I have that opportunity to have them come to a game and show them my role at Allen Fieldhouse.”

That kind of impact is exactly why Meritrust Credit Union formed an NIL partnership with Dick.

“It was a great day and one that those littles will probably remember forever,” said Beth Grimmett, brand manager at Meritrust Credit Union. “It was a priceless experience for them. And that’s the thing that sets Gradey apart from everybody else is that he has those hometown roots. No matter where he ends up, he’ll always have that connection here in Wichita.”