ESPN REPORT: Chris Klieman has signed a groundbreaking $5 million endorsement deal with Powerade. In a remarkable display of generosity, he has donated $1 million to the program and thousands to an orphanage, solidifying his legacy both on and off the field. Securing a partnership of this scale marks a new chapter not only in Klieman’s career but in college football’s growing relationship with major brands. The Kansas State head coach, known for his leadership and humility, has once again proven that his influence reaches far beyond the sidelines.
The deal, finalized earlier this week, positions Powerade as an exclusive hydration partner for Kansas State football and grants Klieman a national marketing role that includes television commercials, motivational content, and youth sports initiatives. Insiders close to the program revealed that Klieman’s focus during negotiations wasn’t just financial gain, but community impact and long-term athlete development. It’s a move that reflects his philosophy — building something sustainable and meaningful, rather than chasing temporary success.
Within hours of the announcement, news broke that Klieman had donated $1 million from his Powerade deal directly to Kansas State’s athletic program. The donation will reportedly be used to upgrade training facilities, expand nutrition programs for student-athletes, and improve mental health resources across all sports. University officials praised the gesture, noting that it represents the kind of leadership and integrity that defines Klieman’s tenure. For a coach who built his reputation on hard work and family culture, this act of generosity was seen as a natural extension of his values.
But Klieman’s giving didn’t stop there. Reports confirmed that he also contributed several thousand dollars to a local orphanage in Manhattan, Kansas — a quiet but deeply personal gesture. According to staff members at the facility, the donation will fund new educational materials, sports equipment, and scholarship opportunities for the children. Those close to the coach said he made the decision after visiting the orphanage earlier this year and being moved by the kids’ resilience and spirit. It’s a story that adds a human touch to what might otherwise have been just another business deal.
Powerade executives are already calling the collaboration one of the brand’s most impactful partnerships to date. Beyond traditional advertising, the company plans to launch a “Power Within” campaign centered on discipline, teamwork, and community service — with Klieman at the forefront. His reputation for molding young athletes into responsible adults makes him the perfect ambassador for that message. The campaign will feature student-athletes and youth coaches across the Midwest, inspiring a new generation to see sports as a vehicle for growth and giving.
On the field, this new phase could also serve as a morale boost for the Wildcats. Players have expressed excitement about the potential upgrades to the program, and fans are viewing Klieman’s gestures as yet another example of his deep commitment to Kansas State. His leadership has already transformed the Wildcats into one of the Big 12’s most respected programs, but it’s his actions off the field that continue to set him apart. The deal and the donations have strengthened the bond between the coach, the team, and the community in ways that money alone can’t measure.
As the season progresses, Klieman’s Powerade partnership will undoubtedly attract national attention. Yet, true to his character, he remains focused on football, faith, and family — the same principles that guided him from his days at North Dakota State to the heart of Kansas. In an era where headlines often highlight controversy or greed, Chris Klieman’s story stands out as a refreshing reminder that success is best shared. His latest act of generosity ensures that his name will be remembered not just as a winning coach, but as a man who used his platform to make a lasting difference.
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