The Pacific West Conference has a new partnership with Athlete’s Thread, a leading provider of officially licensed Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) merchandise and trading cards.
This collaboration is designed to expand NIL opportunities for student-athletes across all PacWest member institutions by providing innovative merchandising solutions and unique collectible products.
Through this partnership, Athletes Thread will partner with the PacWest Conference to expand NIL merchandising and trading card opportunities, working directly with member institutions and student-athletes while leveraging conference platforms to amplify and distribute athlete-driven products..
Athlete’s Thread currently partners with more than 415 colleges nationwide and supports over 50,000 student-athletes. The platform offers a full suite of NIL merchandise, including custom apparel, jerseys, trading cards, and personalized designs—giving athletes new ways to connect with fans and generate income.
“This partnership with the PacWest Conference represents a significant step forward in expanding NIL access and opportunities for student-athletes,” said Karthik Shanadi, CEO of Athlete’s Thread. “We’re excited to work with the conference and its member institutions to deliver best-in-class merchandise and trading card products that help athletes grow their brands and deepen fan engagement.”
The PacWest Conference is committed to fostering a supportive environment where student-athletes can succeed both on and off the field. By partnering with Athlete’s Thread, the conference is enhancing its ability to provide meaningful NIL opportunities that extend beyond competition and into long-term personal and professional development.
“We are thrilled to partner with Athlete’s Thread to bring innovative NIL opportunities to our student-athletes,” said Brad Jones, Commissioner of the PacWest Conference. “This collaboration aligns with our mission to support the holistic development of our athletes by providing them with new platforms to showcase their personal brands and engage with their communities.”
In addition to merchandise, Athlete’s Thread’s trading card offerings introduce a unique and collectible element to NIL, allowing fans, alumni, and supporters to engage with student-athletes in new and exciting ways.
The partnership underscores a shared commitment to innovation, athlete empowerment, and the continued evolution of NIL opportunities across collegiate athletics.
About Athlete’s Thread
Athlete’s Thread is a leading supplier of NIL merchandise, working with 415+ colleges and providing over 50,000+ student-athletes with high-quality NIL merchandise, custom designs, jerseys, and trading cards. The company is committed to empowering student-athletes to leverage their NIL rights and build their personal brands.
About the PacWest Conference
The Pacific West Conference (PacWest) is an NCAA Division II athletic conference committed to academic and athletic excellence. With member institutions located across the western United States and Pacific region, the PacWest provides a competitive and supportive environment focused on the success and development of student-athletes both on and off the field.