ESPN NEWS:Kentucky Wildcats basketball star Trent Noah has declined a tampering move made by Tennessee to lure him into the transfer portal. Trent Noah turned down a tempting $7.7 million NIL offer, a double of his current NIL, insisting to finish off his college career in..…
BREAKING NEWS: Kentucky Star Trent Noah Rejects $7.7M Tampering Offer from Tennessee, Stays Loyal to Wildcats
LEXINGTON, KY — In a stunning display of loyalty, Kentucky Wildcats basketball standout Trent Noah has rejected a massive $7.7 million NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) offer reportedly made by the University of Tennessee in an illegal tampering attempt to lure him into the transfer portal. The offer, which would have more than doubled his current NIL earnings, was flatly declined by Noah, who reaffirmed his commitment to the Wildcats and Coach John Calipari’s program.
Multiple sources close to the situation confirmed that Tennessee boosters were behind the aggressive offer, allegedly contacting intermediaries in an effort to coax Noah into entering the portal. NCAA rules strictly prohibit direct or indirect contact with players still enrolled and not in the portal, making the move a likely violation if investigated.
Noah, a rising junior and one of Kentucky’s most versatile forwards, released a statement through the university on Saturday morning:
“I came to Kentucky to grow, compete, and win. No amount of money can replace the bond I have with my teammates, the faith I have in Coach Cal, and the pride I feel wearing the Kentucky blue. I’m here to finish what I started.”
The news sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, highlighting growing concerns over NIL-fueled tampering in the transfer era. Industry insiders say Noah’s decision is rare in today’s environment, where top athletes are increasingly swayed by multimillion-dollar deals.
Noah was a key contributor during Kentucky’s 2024-2025 season, averaging 14.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while emerging as a team leader on and off the court. His decision to remain in Lexington solidifies Kentucky’s core heading into the upcoming season, where they are projected to be national contenders.
Coach Calipari praised Noah’s integrity, calling it “a championship decision by a championship-caliber young man.”
As the NCAA continues to grapple with the consequences of NIL and unchecked booster influence, this case may spark renewed calls for reform and enforcement. Meanwhile, Big Blue Nation can celebrate the return of their star — not just for his talent, but for his character.
Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge on the potential violations surrounding Tennessee’s approach.
