Kansas Athletics partners with Ripple, introduces XRP patch to jerseys
July 8, 2026
be prominently featured on Kansas Athletics uniforms, in sports venues, on digital platforms, and event signage. The introduction of the XRP logo on the Jayhawks’ uniforms aligns with a common goal of promoting innovation and excellence, according to Travis Goff, the Director of Athletics at Kansas.
In a move that showcases forward-thinking and adaptability in the current landscape of college sports, Kansas Athletics has partnered with Ripple, an emerging presence in the blockchain technology sector. The collaboration, facilitated by Jayhawk Sports Properties and Learfield, not only includes branding on uniforms but also entails initiatives for financial literacy and professional growth for students at the University of Kansas.
Ripple’s CEO Brad Garlinghouse, an alum of the University of Kansas with deep roots in Topeka, played a pivotal role in fostering this alliance. With XRP branding set to make a significant appearance on various platforms and venues associated with Kansas Athletics, the partnership signals a commitment to embracing new opportunities in an evolving sports environment.
Parallel to the rollout of the XRP logo, Ripple has committed to supporting financial and technological education programs for student-athletes at KU, emphasizing both traditional finance and digital assets. This initiative also extends to facilitating connections between KU graduates and potential career opportunities in the tech sector.
The coexistence of the XRP jersey patch with the Big 12 Conference’s recent deal with Monster Energy, which encompasses branding rights for football and basketball regular seasons, poses questions about any potential overlap or limitations during conference-level competitions. However, the excitement surrounding the Ripple partnership is palpable among coaches and staff at the University of Kansas.
Football head coach Lance Leipold expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Ripple and highlighted the shared vision that underpins this partnership. Men’s basketball coach Bill Self echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the significance of this collaboration for the student-athletes’ personal and professional growth. Women’s basketball coach Brandon Schneider noted that the alliance with Ripple underscores the department’s commitment to innovation and creating new opportunities for its athletes.
XRP, a digital asset built on the XRP Ledger, presents a fast and cost-effective solution for financial transactions globally. Ripple, established in 2012, specializes in blockchain-based financial technology services catering to businesses seeking efficient management of digital assets, payments, liquidity, and treasury needs.
The Ripple partnership stands as a testament to Kansas Athletics’ willingness to forge new paths in the realm of college sports and underscores the institution’s commitment to leveraging innovative opportunities for its student-athletes, staff, and fans. Through this landmark collaboration, the University of Kansas aims to set a precedent for future engagements between sports entities and emerging technologies.
