Tre Holloman Explains Decision to Leave NC State: Accepts $27.5M Deal to Join Michigan State, Citing Program Vision, NIL Opportunities, and Long-Term Career Goals
In a move that has shaken the college basketball world, standout point guard Tre Holloman has officially announced his decision to transfer from NC State to Michigan State University after accepting a groundbreaking $27.5 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal. The unexpected transfer marks a major turning point in Holloman’s career and is igniting national debate over the evolving role of NIL deals and the transfer portal in collegiate athletics.
Holloman, known for his sharp court vision, strong defensive presence, and leadership qualities, had a strong season at NC State. While he was a consistent contributor for the Wolfpack, sources close to Holloman say the opportunity to play a central role in Michigan State’s program — combined with the financial and branding advantages of a significant NIL package — became too compelling to pass up.
“This wasn’t just about the money,” Holloman said in a press statement. “Michigan State laid out a vision that aligned with my goals — developing my game at the highest level, building a national brand, and putting myself in the best position to succeed long-term, both in basketball and beyond.”
Michigan State’s head coach also spoke highly of the acquisition, calling Holloman “a cornerstone piece” for the team’s future. The Spartans are expected to center their offensive scheme around Holloman, giving him more responsibility and exposure than he had at NC State.
But it’s the $27.5 million NIL deal that has turned the most heads. The deal, brokered through multiple endorsements and media partnerships, is among the largest ever reported for a college athlete. It’s not just a personal win for Holloman — it represents a broader shift in how elite student-athletes are making decisions about their future.
Across social media and sports networks, reactions have been divided. Some fans celebrate Holloman’s choice as a sign of student-athlete empowerment, while others argue that college basketball is becoming too commercialized.
“This changes everything,” said one analyst on ESPN. “We’re in a new era. Programs not only have to recruit top talent, but they have to be ready to back that up with NIL infrastructure, marketing teams, and brand-building opportunities.”
At NC State, there’s disappointment, but also respect. “We’re proud of what Tre accomplished here and we wish him the best,” a university spokesperson said. “This is the reality of college sports now, and we’ll continue building with that in mind.”
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Tre Holloman’s transfer is more than a roster change — it’s a signal that college basketball is entering uncharted territory. The combination of personal ambition, program alignment, and financial opportunity is now a standard part of the conversation, and Holloman’s bold move may inspire a wave of similar decisions from top-tier athletes in the seasons to complete
