Kaylah Walton
Coach Jay Clark of Olivia Dunne criticized the harsh truth of life as an NCAA gymnast, highlighting that unlike players in sports like American football or basketball, gymnasts face limited options after graduation.
This insight was shared in the sixth episode of *The Money Game*, a documentary focused on the LSU Tigers that examines the effects of the name, image, likeness (NIL) policy allowing student-athletes to monetize their brands.
Some athletes, including Dunne, have capitalized on the NIL program, with the 21-year-old reportedly earning around $3.5 million as she approaches her final collegiate year; however, her future remains uncertain.
The absence of a professional league for gymnastics means that even by age 21, Dunne may be considered too old to pursue events like the World Championships or Olympics with Team USA.
“Our sport lacks an NBA or NFL,” Coach Jay Clark stated. “These youngsters have no avenue to continue professionally after college.”
Despite gymnasts making up 18% of female NIL contracts, Clark had previously urged his athletes to find their own drive prior to a matchup against the Florida Gators.
In contrast, athletes in similar situations, like Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky and Jayden Daniels of the Las Vegas Raiders, have successfully transitioned to higher levels of competition in the WNBA and NFL, respectively.
Dunne’s Future Beyond Gymnastics
Dunne is nearing the end of her college career, and after the 2025 NCAA tournament, she may have to leave competitive gymnastics behind, despite it being integral to her life.
In her personal life, she has a pet dog and is dating Paul Skenes from the MLB, and she is also establishing herself as a social media influencer to prepare for her future after her LSU Tigers career.
“I believe that working with [Sports Illustrated] has long-term potential beyond college,” Dunne shared with the New York Post. “It’s vital to build a solid brand that lasts after college.”
She expressed her close relationship with SI Swim, stating, “I don’t just see it as a partnership; they feel like family to me, and it has been tremendous.”
