Sacramento State Lands Transfer With $2.3 Million NIL Valuation After Major Shaquille O’Neal Announcement

Sacramento State’s men’s basketball program is keeping the momentum going with the recent commitment of Mikey Williams, a high-profile transfer with a staggering $2.3 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation, according to On3 Sports. The announcement, made by ESPN's Shams Charania, comes on the heels of another blockbuster move for the Hornets: the appointment of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal as the team’s voluntary general manager.

Williams, a former UCF Knights player who appeared in just 18 games during the 2024-25 season, brings significant attention to the Hornets. Known for his electrifying high school career, where he once scored 77 points in a single game, Williams has been a polarizing figure. His journey has not been without challenges, including a criminal investigation in California that derailed his initial commitment to play for the Memphis Tigers.



Jan 21, 2025; Ames, Iowa, USA; Iowa State Cyclones guard Tamin Lipsey (3) defends the dribble of UCF Knights guard Mikey Williams (1) during the second half at James H. Hilton Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-Imagn Images © Reese Strickland-Imagn Images Now, he aims to rebuild his career under the guidance of new head coach Mike Bibby and O’Neal, two terrific mentors to have at a college athlete's disposal.

O’Neal’s involvement has already sparked excitement, with his son Shaqir O’Neal also transferring to the program earlier this offseason. The Hall of Famer, who won four NBA titles and previously owned a minority stake in the Sacramento Kings, is expected to leverage his expertise to elevate the Hornets’ profile. The addition of Williams, alongside other transfers like Arizona State Sun Devils' Brandon Gardner, signals the Hornets' ambition to compete at a higher level after a dismal 7-25 season.

While some may question Williams' fit with the program, Sacramento State is positioning itself as a destination for talent and attention in college basketball.Related: Shaquille O'Neal Takes Unexpected New Role Amid NBA Playoffs.