San Diego State University Receives $5 Million NIL Commitment

Last Updated on October 17, 2025

San Diego State University Athletics has announced a $5 million commitment from SDSU alum and Blenders Eyewear founder Chase Fisher, the largest NIL initiative in SDSU history. The donation establishes the Chase Fisher Athletics Support Fund through The Campanile Foundation to benefit the men’s basketball program.

“My vision is simple: to lift all SDSU athletes,” said Chase Fisher. “I want every player who puts on that jersey to feel like they’re building something bigger than themselves. I’ve been the underdog. I’ve been the one figuring it out, grinding, and chasing belief when nobody else saw it. We live in America’s Finest City, and we should have America’s finest athletics. This is where my journey began, and it’s incredibly meaningful to come full circle — to invest in the athletes, the culture, and the belief that defines SDSU.”

Fisher will play an integral role in guiding the program’s strategy, creating new NIL and mentorship opportunities.

“With this landmark five-year commitment, Chase is not just investing in SDSU Basketball, he’s redefining its future,” said Jeff Smith, Founder and President of the MESA Foundation. “His vision goes beyond the court, empowering student-athletes to excel athletically and personally. By championing a culture of opportunity, Chase is creating a lasting foundation that will impact generations of Aztecs.”

Expressing his “deepest thanks for this game-changing donation,” Men’s Basketball Head Coach Brian Dutcher said, “Competitive revenue-sharing is essential to attracting and retaining elite talent. Chase isn’t in this to play the game, he wants to change the game, and this extraordinary gift helps us establish a new standard of excellence.”

Blenders previously donated $100,000 to the MESA Foundation in March 2025 and has donated nearly $300,000 in total to SDSU’s NIL efforts over the past two years.

“Chase Fisher’s extraordinary gift is a transformative investment in SDSU Men’s Basketball and a powerful reflection of the bold, entrepreneurial spirit that defines our university,” said SDSU President Adela de la Torre. “Much like his journey as the visionary founder of Blenders Eyewear, this commitment mirrors the innovation, pride, and forward-thinking leadership that propels SDSU into the future—especially as we prepare to enter the Pac-12.”

SDSU Director of Intercollegiate Athletics JD Wicker said, “This incredible $5 million commitment is a transformative moment for our Men’s Basketball program. In today’s highly competitive collegiate landscape, where recruitment and retention resources are more vital than ever, this gift provides the flexible, sustained funding we need.”

Fisher will attend tonight’s exhibition game against UCLA. Proceeds from the game will go to SDSU’s Men’s Basketball Recruitment and Retention Fund.