Asjia O’Neal Secures Multi-Million Dollar Endorsement Deal with Nationwide
Columbus, OH – In a groundbreaking move for women’s professional volleyball, Asjia O’Neal, the top overall pick in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF) draft and star middle blocker for the Columbus Fury, has signed a multi-million dollar endorsement deal with Nationwide Insurance. The partnership, announced alongside Nationwide’s sponsorship of the Fury, marks a major milestone for O’Neal and the growing PVF, reflecting the rapid rise of volleyball in the U.S. sports landscape.
O’Neal, a recent Texas graduate and two-time first-team All-American, already made headlines when she became the Fury’s marquee player following a stellar collegiate career. Her dominance on the court, leading Texas to back-to-back national titles in 2022 and 2023, made her an easy choice as the top pick in the PVF draft. Now, her star power has attracted one of the nation’s largest insurance companies.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Asjia O’Neal to the Nationwide family,” said Ramon Jones, Nationwide’s Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “Her relentless pursuit of excellence and leadership both on and off the court align perfectly with Nationwide’s values. We look forward to supporting her and the Columbus Fury in this exciting new chapter of professional volleyball.”
The deal, reportedly worth up to $5 million over several years, includes a variety of endorsements and promotional opportunities. O’Neal will feature in Nationwide’s national ad campaigns and community initiatives, expanding her presence beyond the volleyball court. The partnership will also showcase O’Neal’s leadership in supporting youth sports and empowering young women through various community outreach programs.
“This is a dream come true,” O’Neal said in a statement. “Being able to represent a company like Nationwide, known for its commitment to women’s sports and community development, is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to help grow the sport of volleyball in the U.S. and be part of something that will inspire the next generation of athletes.”
Nationwide’s partnership with the Columbus Fury, which includes branding on team jerseys, is a continuation of the company’s growing presence in women’s sports. Over the past three years, Nationwide has been a key sponsor of the Women’s Soccer League, and their commitment to the PVF further highlights their investment in elevating women’s professional sports.
David Paitson, CEO of the Columbus Fury, praised the endorsement deal and its significance. “To have a player like Asjia O’Neal, paired with a company of Nationwide’s stature, is a huge moment for our team and the PVF as a whole. This partnership not only elevates the Fury brand but also helps grow professional volleyball as a viable platform for world-class athletes.”
O’Neal’s decision to stay in the U.S., despite opportunities to play overseas in more established leagues, further underscores her commitment to growing the sport domestically. While European volleyball stars often command higher salaries, O’Neal’s endorsement deal brings her earning potential to a comparable level, reinforcing the appeal of staying stateside.
As the Columbus Fury prepare for their inaugural season in the PVF, O’Neal’s role both as a key player and now the face of a major corporate partnership solidifies her place as a rising star not only in volleyball but across the wider sports world. The PVF’s debut, supported by high-profile endorsements like O’Neal’s, represents a new era for professional volleyball in America.
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