UNLV addresses QB Matthew Sluka’s departure amid NIL dispute

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has spoken out regarding the sudden departure of its starting quarterback, Matthew Sluka, following allegations that the school failed to fulfill promises related to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation. Sluka claims the program did not deliver on NIL offers made during his recruitment, which reportedly amounted to at least $100,000.

However, UNLV’s NIL collective disputes Sluka’s claims, stating that no formal offer of such compensation was ever made. The school further argues that Sluka’s compensation demands violated both NCAA rules and Nevada state law.

In a statement provided to The Athletic, UNLV said, “UNLV does not engage in such activity, nor does it respond to implied threats. UNLV has honored all previously agreed-upon scholarships for Matthew Sluka.”

Complicating matters, questions have arisen about the credentials of Sluka’s agent, Marcus Cromartie, who claimed to have negotiated the quarterback’s NIL deal with the school.

According to UNLV’s NIL representatives, Cromartie is not registered as an agent in the state of Nevada or with the university, a requirement UNLV says it communicated to him during negotiations.

The situation could potentially lead to further scrutiny. According to CBS Sports, the Nevada Secretary of State’s office may investigate both Cromartie and Sluka for possible violations, though representatives from the office have declined to confirm or deny whether an investigation is imminent.