Top college football prospect Matai Tagoa’i will be paid part of his earnings in Bitcoin thanks to a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with the University of Southern California (USC). This deal allows organizations to use an athlete's likeness for various purposes. Tagoa’i views this arrangement as a means to ensure long-term financial growth and hopes to inspire other young athletes. The trend of athletes, including NFL players like Russell Okung and Odell Beckham Jr., receiving payments in Bitcoin is gaining traction. Russell Okung, the first NFL player to be paid in Bitcoin, opted to receive half of his $6.6 million salary in Bitcoin in 2020. His investment could be worth over $20 million now. Additionally, Beckham received part of his salary in Bitcoin through Block Inc.'s Cash App. The move towards cryptocurrency payments in sports appears to be growing, with other athletes in different sports also exploring similar avenues.

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