CARBONDALE, Ill. — NIL FloorburnU, a name, image and likeness collective dedicated to supporting Southern Illinois University student-athletes, was publicly unveiled on Monday.

The collective, which began receiving funds last fall, will initially support men’s basketball student-athletes, but has aspirational goals to include additional programs. Saluki fans can support the collective through its official website, www.NILFloorburnU.com.

“Saluki Basketball is a tradition-rich program with a diehard fan base,” said SIU men’s basketball head coach Bryan Mullins. “The creation of NIL FloorburnU allows our student-athletes to enjoy that rich experience, while also maximizing their market potential.”

Mullins was the point guard on the 2007 team that trademarked FloorburnU with its gritty, blue-collar style that took college basketball by storm, advancing to the Sweet 16. Now in his fourth year as head coach, Saluki Basketball is coming off a 23-win season — the most victories since 2007.

“When you come to SIU, you’ll receive a first-class education, the overwhelming support of a passionate fan base, and the resources to achieve your market value,” Mullins said. “NIL FloorburnU will be a difference-maker for our program and our student-athletes.”

The formation of the collective was led by NCAA industry veteran Chris Schoemann, who has more than 30 years of professional experience in collegiate athletics administration and consulting.

“We’re extremely grateful for the work Chris has done to form the collective,” said SIU Director of Athletics Tim Leonard. “NIL FloorburnU will be a tremendous resource for our student-athletes and ensures we remain competitive within the changing landscape of college athletics.”

Schoemann said the collective will help SIU student-athletes receive compensation for their name, image and likeness (NIL) rights by partnering with local entities (e.g., charities, businesses) to promote awareness for worthy causes, brands and noteworthy events.

“At a time when a Division I athlete’s access to brand and marketing opportunities is more valuable than ever before, we are excited to leverage an integrated network of corporate, philanthropic and athletics leaders,” Schoemann said. “For a city and alumni base as relationship-oriented as Carbondale and SIU, it seems only fitting that the community has come together in this way. We could not be more excited to be working with the institution, Tim Leonard and his coaches.”

Schoemann said NIL FloorburnU has partnered with Opendorse to provide industry-leading support for deal disclosures, education and tax-related preparation.