Gavin McKenna’s $700K NIL Deal with Penn State Reshapes College Hockey Future

In a move that could forever shift the trajectory of collegiate ice hockey, top NHL prospect Gavin McKenna is set to join Penn State University for the 2025–26 season, according to Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects. McKenna, widely regarded as the projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, is reportedly finalizing a groundbreaking $700,000 Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal.

This historic agreement not only delivers a major win for Penn State’s hockey program but also underscores the rapidly evolving nature of NCAA hockey. An official announcement from the university is anticipated Tuesday, making it one of the most high-profile commitments in recent college hockey memory.

A Game-Changer for NCAA Hockey

McKenna’s choice to bypass the traditional Canadian Hockey League (CHL) route in favor of the collegiate system is being hailed as a pivotal moment in hockey development. Long considered the dominant path to the NHL, the CHL has historically outpaced NCAA programs in producing elite professional talent. However, the rise of NIL-driven incentives is shifting that dynamic.

The $700,000 NIL Benchmark

The reported NIL value of $700,000 places McKenna among the highest-paid college hockey players in history. While NIL deals have become common in football and basketball, such figures are virtually unprecedented in hockey. This deal could trigger a domino effect in NCAA recruiting, with other programs looking to build similar pipelines by leveraging commercial value and brand visibility.

Penn State’s Rising Hockey Program

Penn State has rapidly emerged as a major force in college hockey since the launch of its Division I program in 2012. McKenna’s commitment may solidify its status as a premier destination for top-tier prospects seeking a combination of athletic excellence and financial opportunity.

(with inputs from Elite Prospects, NCAA Hockey sources)