Wichita, KS – Meritrust Credit Union is proud to announce its partnership with two K-State Basketball standouts: Junior Guard Cam Carter and Senior Center Ayoka Lee.

The partnership highlights the credit union’s focus on helping student athletes understand money management and empowering their financial decisions off the court. It will go beyond traditional sponsorship, focusing on education and mentorship to help these athletes navigate their financial journeys.

“We are incredibly excited to work with these athletes who are not only exceptionally talented, but hardworking and passionate individuals,” says President/CEO James Nastars. “We believe in the power of financial education, and through this partnership, we aim to equip Cam and Ayoka with the tools and knowledge they need to build a strong financial foundation for their future.”

Lee is a center for the women's basketball team, pursuing her master’s degree in couple and family therapy. She has numerous athletic achievements, including a NCAA Division I record for most points scored in a single game.

“It’s important for me to use my platform as a student athlete to spread awareness around important topics,” Lee said. “Money management being one of them, I want my peers to make sure they are learning the importance of financial management.”

Carter, a guard for the men’s basketball team, currently studies human development and family science. As an up-and-coming player, Carter has established a strong presence on the court. He is one of four Wildcats to start all games during the 2022-23 season.

“Not only am I thankful for the chance spread awareness about financial well-being, but to have the opportunity to learn about it myself,” Carter said. “As a student athlete, when you work with brands and companies, there are certain financial factors to consider. This partnership better prepares me for those conversations.”

This opportunity was facilitated by The Wildcats’ Den, an NIL collective supporting K-State student-athletes in a variety of NIL endeavors.

“We can’t wait to see the positive impacts that this campaign has on our student-athletes and our Meritrust partners,” says Logan Craghead, General Manager of The Wildcats’ Den. “NIL engagements like this one provide student athletes with new and unique ways to connect with their fans, supporters, and K-State alumni.”

Meritrust has long-focused on championing the financial success of student athletes. Meritrust is proud to be the Official Financial Well-being Partner of K-State Athletics and part of the Manhattan community.

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About Meritrust: Meritrust Credit Union has been helping members do more with their money since 1935. Meritrust is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, with branches also located in Andover, Derby, Lawrence and Manhattan. With a mission of improving the lives of members and their communities, Meritrust offers consumers and businesses the products, services, tools and education needed to achieve their financial well-being goals confidently. For more information, visit meritrustcu.org. Federally insured by NCUA.

The Wildcats’ Den is a fan-driven and alumni-led Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) collective for Kansas State student-athletes, alumni, and fans. Community members who commit their support to the Wildcats’ Den are pledging to maximize opportunities for student-athletes to build their brand and earn compensation. In addition, community supporters gain access to exclusive events, autograph sessions, and more. The Wildcats’ Den is powered by parent company Blueprint Sports. For more information visit thewildcatsden.com and follow @wildcatsdenksu on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.