Friends of Nova is a fan and alumni-driven collective that serves as a conduit through which businesses, donors, and fans can support Villanova student-athletes. Led by former Villanova Men's Basketball All-American, 2006 graduate and first-round NBA draft pick Randy Foye, Friends of Nova's philosophy is rooted in helping student-athletes build their brand, give back to their community, and earn compensation.
"We're incredibly excited to announce this collaboration with Friends of Nova," stated Villanova Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark Jackson. "At Villanova, our priority is always to take on new opportunities in a manner that fits within the larger mission of our University and Athletics department. Friends of Nova is perfectly aligned with that approach, and everyone at Friends of Nova is committed to helping our student-athletes to fully harness NIL opportunities."
"Collectives, like Friends of Nova, are really helping usher Villanova into a new era of college athletics," added Baker Dunleavy, General Manager of Villanova Basketball. "Being able to offer this experience to our student-athletes and guide them on this journey while they compete as student-athletes is important. It's our duty to them in this new age of college athletics."
NIL legislation went into effect in 2021 and Friends of Nova was founded in 2022. Friends of Nova will enable fans to contribute to the NIL efforts of Villanova student-athletes through several offerings, including memberships, one-time contributions, and corporate sponsorships. Since its inception, Friends of Nova has also sponsored a series of events highlighting Villanova student-athletes, including financial education seminars and community outreach affairs.
"It is wonderful for our young women to be prepared when they leave this campus," said Head Villanova Women's Basketball Coach Denise Dillon. "Friends of Nova is helping to put these student-athletes into position to succeed, whether they continue playing as professional athletes or in the career path they so choose. The education component and community outreach are priorities for Villanova and for Friends of Nova."
"NIL is a hot topic in college basketball," stated Kyle Neptune, the William B. Finneran Endowed Head Coach of Villanova Men's Basketball. "Friends of Nova creates NIL opportunities for our student-athletes and does it at the highest level. As an alumnus who went on to play 12 years in the NBA, Randy understands the values and culture of Villanova and what opportunities that it can present to student-athletes. We're grateful and excited to partner with Randy and his team at Friends of Nova."
Those interested in making a contribution or getting involved can learn more at www.friendsofnova.com or by following the collective on Twitter (X), Instagram or Facebook.
