Charlotte’s own Bryce Slay has just stepped into the history books. The former Carmel Christian School star guard has signed a pioneering Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement with the national moving company College Hunks Hauling Junk — a move that marks one of the first high-profile NIL deals for a recent high school graduate in the region.
Slay, fresh out of high school and headed to Marshall University, is a promising recruit. Basketball runs in his blood — his father, Tamar Slay, once played in the NBA and starred at Marshall before beginning a career overseas. “It feels like everything came full circle,” Bryce said, reflecting on following his father’s path.
The NIL landscape has transformed the way young athletes think about their careers. Until recently, high school and college players weren’t allowed to profit from their own name and image — now, opportunities like Slay’s are rewriting the rules.
For Bryce, this isn’t just a quick cash grab. The agreement with College Hunks is designed to be a long-term partnership that could carry into his college years and possibly beyond. Though the details remain private, it’s clear the deal is as much about shared values as it is about business. Bryce said the company’s grit and underdog success story resonated with him on a personal level.
Slay’s college decision wasn’t based on flashy facilities or high-profile recruiting hype. Instead, he was drawn to Marshall because of a deep connection with the coaches, community, and school legacy. “It felt like God was showing me the right place to be,” he admitted.
For the Slay family, it’s more than a sports decision. Both of his parents are Marshall graduates, and seeing Bryce commit to the same program has been an emotional milestone.
When asked what aspiring athletes should focus on, Slay’s answer was straightforward: “Love the school, not the spotlight. Work hard, stay humble, and build your foundation first.” It’s advice that reflects not just his mindset, but the grounded, family-driven approach that has guided his choices.
Slay now faces the challenge of making an impact in the faster, more physical college game. As the only freshman on the roster this year, he’s preparing for early lessons in toughness, focus, and adaptation. His years of playing overseas tournaments with his father and competing against top talent may give him the edge he needs.
