Northwestern Wildcats commit Jake West unveils new business venture after teasing it's announcement

Modified Nov 29, 2024 13:57 GMT

Northwestern Wildcats three-star recruit Jake West has launched his own brand of merchandise. West had been updating his followers in the days leading up to the launch when he had posted an updated Instagram story where he showed off a chain with his "JW3" logo, donning apparel that bore the same signature.

Jake West unveils new business venture after teasing it's announcement (image via instagram/@jakewestt3)

The freshman athlete has officially unveiled his merchandise line with sweatshirts, t-shirts, shorts, hoodies, and caps, all widely available in black and white. Most notably, "Just Be Yourself," inspired by West's personal mantra, is on every item.

This makes him part of a band of young inspired athletes such as Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA great Carmelo Anthony, who have also started clothing lines. West's entry into business reflects how more high school and college athletes are accessing avenues beyond sports using their platforms.

Beyond the traditional merchandise, such launches also fall in line with the ever-developing NIL landscape. The details of West's NIL deals are undisclosed, but his merchandise line now serves as a foundational setting for building his personal brand.

The "Just Be Yourself" collection may also result in partnerships with brands espousing similar values thereby reaching a more extensive audience beyond the court.

Jake West has signed for the Northwestern Wildcats

Jake West's commitment and subsequent signing for the Northwestern Wildcats is considered a big recruiting win for the program. He spoke about his decision in October, via MadeHoops:

“On my visit, it was awesome because I got to meet the team, and I really bonded well with my future teammates. The coaching staff is also awesome, and they play a style of play that I really like, so I think they’re a really good fit. The coaching staff is amazing and it’s the highest level of basketball, this has been my dream since I was kid.”

West signed for the Wildcats two weeks ago, and the three-star guard will be one to watch with the program. On3 ranks him as the 125th prospect nationally, the No. 20 PG and the No. 2 recruit from Pennsylvania.