Two UTEP student-athletes have landed a NIL deal with a local business for a meet and greet that will be held this Friday.

UTEP men's basketball forward Tydus Verhoeven and Miner football wide receiver Justin Garrett signed a NIL deal to appear at the Oscar Arrieta Allstate Agency for their customer appreciation celebration. Verhoeven and Garrett will be taking photos with customers and signing autographs at the event.

Jorge Salgado
UTEP WR Justin Garrett / Jorge Salgado
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As of the summer, NCAA college athletes have the opportunity to benefit from their name, image and likeness. Athletes across college sports have been starting to sign endorsement deals as soon as this new policy was accepted. Now, a pair of UTEP student-athletes get to reap the benefit of this.

"It's great to have the ability to earn money based on my likeness," Garrett said. "Additionally, I'm thankful for El Paso for giving me the opportunity to represent myself. Huge shoutout to the Oscar Arrieta Allstate Agency."

Ivan Pierre Aguirre/Sun Bowl Association
Tydus Verhoeven / Ivan Pierre Aguirre
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Verhoeven, a senior forward on the basketball squad, is one of the team's key returning leaders. Similarly, Garrett—a senior captain on the football team—is continuing a productive season thus far, with the Miners at 2-1 on the year. While Verhoeven is still gearing up for the season to start in November, Garrett will be preparing for a key UTEP game on Saturday against the Lobos.

The pair will be at the Oscar Arrieta Agency's Lee Trevino Location (1506 N. Lee Trevino) between 11 to 4 on Friday. The business is encouraging Miner fans to stop by and join them for free hot dogs and burgers throughout the event. In addition, they will have hourly raffles that include Chihuahuas baseball tickets, Amazon Alexa, Smart TV and more.

Hopefully this NIL deal sparks more interest locally for UTEP athletes to earn some extra money on the side. Whether it's a grand opening event or a product that needs to be endorsed, it seems like these student-athletes are willing to explore these ventures with local businesses.

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