Yusuf Corker (UK Athletics Photo)
All-Southeastern Conference selection Yusuf Corker isn’t worried about how many points Kentucky beats Louisiana Monroe by Saturday. He just wants to make sure Kentucky, a 29-point favorite, wins. Then he can savor the win at KSBar in Lexington later Saturday night when he signs autographs with teammate Josh Paschal. It will be the first postgame autograph signings by any UK athlete in any sport since the new name, image and likeness protocols started in July.
“For us, we just want to meet the fans,” said Corker, a fifth-year senior. “Even if we were not signing autographs, we would want fans to just come out and meet us. It’s going to be pretty exciting to see fans back in the stadium and then after the game.
“It’s exciting that the new NIL stuff gives us the opportunity to make money like we never have been able to before. I am excited about that, too.”
Corker got married during the offseason and has a 2-year-old daughter. He said he might even consider bringing his daughter with him Saturday night.
“It will just depend on how she is feeling. If she is grumpy, I will leave her at home with my wife. But if she is feeling good, I will bring her and we will eat some food and have a good time,” Corker said.
“I am really looking forward to having a chance to talk to fans. They can ask questions, take pictures, whatever. It’s just going to be fun.”
Corker is focusing on football, not NIL deals even though he’s married and a father who could certainly put extra money to good use.
“We have had a couple (of deals) come our way. Nothing solidified yet but I hope we get it done soon,” Corker said.
