In a move that sent shockwaves through women’s college basketball, Oklahoma Sooners star center Raegan Beers has officially rejected a staggering $5.7 million combined NIL offer from powerhouse SEC programs South Carolina and Alabama. The decision to stay in Norman rather than take a record-setting payday stunned not only fans but coaches and analysts across the country.
Beers, a dominant force in the paint and widely regarded as one of the best frontcourt players in the nation, had been heavily pursued by both programs following the end of the 2024 season. With South Carolina fresh off another deep NCAA tournament run and Alabama investing heavily in rebuilding its women’s program, both schools saw Beers as a potential game-changer. Their lucrative offer — which sources say included endorsement deals, luxury housing, and exclusive brand partnerships — would’ve made Beers the highest-paid NIL athlete in women’s college basketball history.
But Beers turned it all down.
“I came to Oklahoma to be a part of something bigger than myself,” Beers said in a statement released Tuesday morning. “This is my team, this is my family. No amount of money can replace that.”
Head Coach Jennie Baranczyk played a pivotal role in Beers’ decision. According to insiders, Baranczyk assured Beers that the program would be built around her — not just for the upcoming season, but for years to come. She reportedly promised to make her “the most dominant player in all of women’s college basketball,” with an offensive system tailored to showcase her unique blend of size, skill, and leadership.
“Raegan is the heart of this team,” Coach Baranczyk said. “She’s not just staying — she’s leading us into a new era.”
Fans across social media hailed Beers’ decision as “unbelievable,” “loyal,” and “era-defining” for the Sooners. Many believe this move could spark a major shift in how athletes approach NIL deals — prioritizing culture, loyalty, and legacy over raw financial gain.
With Beers returning, Oklahoma instantly becomes a top contender for a national title in 2025. And for the SEC, it’s a painful reminder that not every battle can be won with a blank check.