LSU Commit Bella Hines Signs Historic NIL Deal with Jordan Brand

High school basketball sensation and LSU commit Bella Hines has achieved another remarkable milestone by signing a historic NIL deal with Jordan Brand. The partnership makes Hines the first high school female athlete to sign with the iconic brand, further cementing her status as one of the most promising young players in the country.

Hines, a 5-foot-10 guard from Albuquerque, New Mexico, is ranked No. 21 in the BTN 150 with a 96.3 BTN Rating. She has been recognized as New Mexico's Player of the Year for two consecutive years and is celebrated for her exceptional scoring ability. During her junior season, she surpassed 2,000 career points while averaging 32.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists per game.

The Significance of the Jordan Brand Partnership

Signing with Jordan Brand is more than just an endorsement deal—it’s a groundbreaking achievement for Hines and female athletes everywhere. Known for its exclusive roster of elite talent, Jordan Brand has historically represented some of the best in basketball, from Michael Jordan himself to WNBA stars like Maya Moore and Kiki Rice. Hines now joins this illustrious group, bringing high school athletes into the fold and opening the door for more young players to gain recognition in the NIL era.

In a statement about the partnership, Hines expressed her excitement:
"Joining Jordan Brand is a dream come true. It’s an honor to represent such an iconic brand, and I hope to inspire young athletes, especially girls, to pursue their passions and work hard to achieve their goals."

Bella Hines: A Rising Star

Hines’s journey to becoming one of the top-ranked players in the Class of 2025 is rooted in her relentless work ethic and natural talent. Her scoring ability is what sets her apart—whether it’s driving to the basket, shooting off the dribble, or sinking three-pointers from deep. She has proven to be a consistent offensive threat who can dominate any game.

LSU head coach Kim Mulkey, who secured Hines as part of the Tigers' top-ranked recruiting class, praised her contributions:
"Bella has a knack for scoring the basketball. Her ability to shoot the three at a high level adds another dimension to our program. She’s a competitor, and we’re excited about what she’ll bring to LSU."

Balancing NIL, Recruitment, and On-Court Success

The NIL deal with Jordan Brand marks a significant step in Hines’s young career, but she’s also focused on making an immediate impact at LSU. Hines is part of a star-studded recruiting class that includes Grace Knox (#6 BTN, 98 BTN Rating), Divine Bourrage (#8 BTN, 97.7 BTN Rating), and Zakiyah Johnson (#16 BTN, 96.9 BTN Rating). Together, they represent the future of LSU women’s basketball and a new era of dominance under Coach Mulkey.

As Hines prepares for her senior season in high school, she is balancing her growing national profile with her commitment to development. She has spoken about her goals to improve her rebounding and defensive intensity while maintaining her elite scoring abilities.

"It’s important to me to keep growing as a player," Hines said. "I want to make sure I’m ready to contribute right away at LSU, so I’m focused on being more aggressive on both ends of the court."

Inspiring the Next Generation

Hines’s NIL deal with Jordan Brand also signals a cultural shift in the way female athletes are celebrated. By becoming the first high school female athlete signed by the brand, she is paving the way for others to follow. This partnership is about more than basketball—it’s about inspiring young athletes to believe in their potential and embrace opportunities that come their way.

Hines’s ability to break barriers while maintaining humility and focus is a testament to her character. As she prepares to take her talents to LSU and beyond, her influence on the court and within the community is only just beginning.