Olympic gymnast and UCLA standout Jordan Chiles is taking her talents to new heights as she navigates the intersection of athletics, business, and branding.
With her Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation reaching $318,000, the 23-year-old powerhouse is proving her ability to excel both in the gym and the entrepreneurial world.
Chiles’ return to NCAA gymnastics after her 2024 Paris Olympic triumph has reignited her career and cemented her status as a top NIL earner.
Despite a rocky start, including the emotional experience of having her floor bronze medal stripped, Chiles remains focused.
Her commercial success, bolstered by partnerships with Nike, Kiss USA, and Toyota, showcases her savvy in managing the opportunities NIL offers.
Navigating NIL Success
Speaking at Black Entrepreneurs Day, hosted by Daymond John, Chiles shared insights into managing her brand and finances.
“It’s definitely been very crazy being able to be a pro athlete and also a college athlete at the same time,” Chiles said, reflecting on the challenges of balancing her athletic career and business ventures.
Chiles credits her financial success to a strong support team, including accountants and advisors, who have guided her investments and savings.
“Understanding that investment is a huge thing, saving is a huge thing, and being able to put your money in the right stocks,” she noted, stressing the importance of building long-term stability.
From Underdog to Superstar
Chiles’ rise to fame began at age seven and skyrocketed during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics when she stepped in for teammate Simone Biles, helping Team USA secure a silver medal.
At the 2024 Paris Games, she was integral to the team’s all-around gold medal victory.
Off the mat, Chiles is equally impressive. Her entrepreneurial ventures, including Melanin Drip Clothing Co., focus on inclusivity and empowerment.
She also recently purchased a $1.5 million home for her parents, highlighting her commitment to family and smart financial decisions.
The Future Ahead
As Chiles continues her college gymnastics career at UCLA, her focus remains on excelling both in sports and business.
“Your name is something that is your brand,” she said, underlining the importance of maintaining integrity and strategy in every endeavor.
Chiles’ story is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the limitless opportunities available to athletes under the NIL framework. Whether on the mat or in the boardroom, she is a force to be reckoned with.
