By Mark Pszonak
The reputation of NIL hasn’t been the greatest since it overtook college athletics. However, numerous players have used some of their money for good causes. That is the situation with Tennessee cornerback Rickey Gibson, who recently made a donation to his former high school.
Really great moment today as 2023 Alumnus @RickeyGibson03 donated back to his high school program and shared a great word with our players. Thank you Rickey and we are super proud of you!! @Vol_Football pic.twitter.com/A7rqPlBkhf
— Hewitt-Trussville FB (@HuskyFast) May 15, 2025
Gibson’s donation of $5,000 to the football program at Hewitt-Trussville in Alabama came after his successful career at the high school which culminated in a senior season when he totaled 40 tackles, 13 passes defended and four interceptions. With a final three of Tennessee, Georgia and Penn State, he committed to the Vols during the summer of 2022.
In Knoxville, Gibson saw immediate playing time as a true freshman before becoming an integral part of the defensive unit in 2024 with 32 tackles, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble and five passes defended. He will be a starting cornerback this season.
In a world where the negative impacts of NIL are more publicized, it is always nice to hear about the positive results that are still possible.
