About Us
At Rise Sports Management, we’re not your typical agency. We’re a family-first, community-driven team that’s redefining what it means to be a top-tier sports agency. Our approach is built on authenticity, trust, and a relentless commitment to our athletes’ success — both on and off the field.
We specialize in empowering athletes through innovative NIL opportunities and professional representation, but we go beyond the business side. Our athletes are more than clients; they’re part of the Rise family. We believe in building lasting relationships, supporting personal growth, and helping our clients make an impact in their communities and beyond.
Whether you’re an up-and-coming talent navigating the dynamic world of NIL or a seasoned pro looking to elevate your career, we’re here to help you rise to the top. Our team of experts is always by your side, providing strategic marketing, brand-building, and partnership solutions designed to maximize your potential and amplify your voice.
At Rise, we’re not just about winning—we’re about creating opportunities, making meaningful connections, and setting a new standard for success. Together, we rise.
Our Team
Founder & Agent: Cameron Bairstow
A FIBA certified agent, Cameron’s ability procuring and negotiating contracts benefits from his many relationships throughout the NBA and international markets. As a former professional player, both in the NBA and internationally, Cameron is elite in player development and works individually with our players to maximise their basketball abilities.
Cameron graduated from University of New Mexico where he earned a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science. On the court he earned All-American honors his senior season after arriving at New Mexico as a two-star recruit. His experiences and connections provide a strong understanding of the current collegiate landscape and the opportunities now presented to student athletes through name, image and likeness (NIL).
Vice President & Professional/NIL Agent: Jonathon Mines
Jonathon is a former collegiate and professional basketball player who competed across Europe and Australia. During his career, he built valuable connections, giving his clients access to some of the most prominent organizations in the NIL and collective space. His deep knowledge of the market allows him to offer expert scouting, helping Rise negotiate tailored deals based on clients’ specific talents and potential.
Jonathon earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health from New Mexico Highlands University, finishing on the Dean’s List for his academic excellence. On the court, he was a NCAA First Team All-Conference player in his final two seasons. His wealth of knowledge about transitioning from college to international leagues, along with his understanding of the unique styles of play, helps guide athletes through their professional journeys with confidence and success.
Pete Trammell - NBPA Agent
As a certified NBPA agent, Pete combines firsthand experience as a player, coach, and administrator with the expertise to secure NBA contracts. His deep-rooted relationships across all levels of basketball—developed through years as a high school varsity coach, skills trainer, and athletic director—give him a unique advantage in player development and career advancement.
Pete earned a bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Public Relations from Grand Valley State University and a master’s in Sports Administration from Concordia University Chicago. As a standout player at GVSU, he started 130 of 131 games, leading the program to 113 wins—the most in school history. His career included four NCAA Tournament appearances, two NCAA Midwest Regional titles, and two trips to the Elite Eight. A multiple-time First Team All-Conference and All-Defensive Team selection, he was inducted into the GVSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018.
Professionally, Pete played overseas in Finland and in domestic leagues such as the PBL and IBA. His extensive experience, education, and industry connections equip him with the insight and expertise to provide unparalleled service to his clients.
Alec Small: Head of Talent and Women’s Sports
At 24 years old, Alec Small is a rising star in NIL marketing, serving as Head of NIL & Talent at Rise Sports Management. His journey from aspiring musician to sports marketing leader began with an internship at a family friend's agency, where he discovered his passion for athlete representation. Partnering with former NBA player Cameron Bairstow, Alec focused on putting athletes first.
Since joining Rise in September 2023, Alec quickly made an impact, initially working with male basketball athletes and NIL collectives. His passion for empowering female athletes grew, leading him to sign his first female clients in April 2024—pole vaulter Isabella Nilsen and cross-country runner Cami Merickel. Their success contributed to Rise's rapid growth, making Alec a key player in the NIL space for female athletes.
Alec also launched Rise's Women's Basketball Division, representing stars like Blanca Thomas, who secured major brand deals. While still committed to men's basketball, Alec ensures all athletes, male and female, have the support to succeed. Through his leadership, he’s reshaping the NIL landscape, driven by integrity, ambition, and athlete-first values.
Basketball expertise
Founder & Visionary
Professional Basketball Experience
Founder & Visionary
Cameron Bairstow, an NBA draft pick and founder of our agency, brings invaluable experience to athlete representation. His journey from a standout player at the University of New Mexico to playing for the Chicago Bulls and international leagues has shaped his understanding of athletes' needs both on and off the court.
College Career
Professional Basketball Experience
Founder & Visionary
At the University of New Mexico, Cam excelled as a dominant force on the court, earning all-conference honors and leading the team to multiple successful seasons. His leadership, work ethic, and basketball IQ laid the foundation for his future career in professional basketball.
Professional Basketball Experience
Professional Basketball Experience
Professional Basketball Experience
Cam Bairstow represented Australia in the 2016 Rio Olympics and enjoyed a successful career in Europe and Australia. Competing at the highest levels of international basketball, he gained invaluable experience in multiple competitive leagues. This unique background allows him to offer athletes expert guidance as they navigate their professional journeys across the global basketball landscape.
Rise With Us: Powering Unmatched Brand Partnerships
Talent Roster
Delanie Harkness
Delanie Harkness
Delanie Harkness
Delanie Harkness is a powerhouse gymnast at Michigan State with a remarkable 3x Big Ten Champion title and multiple All-Big Ten honors. She’s also a social media sensation, with over 60k followers on Instagram and 15k on TikTok. Delanie creates engaging content that resonates with fans and showcases her life as an elite athlete. A true standout on and off the mat!
Katie Moore
Delanie Harkness
Delanie Harkness
Katie Moore is a recent graduate from the University of Iowa, making waves in the social media space. With over 200,000 followers across her social media platforms, Katie inspires fans with her love for track and field. Her influence grew after attending the 2024 NIL Summit, where she networked with top influencers. This is just the beginning for Katie!
Paris mikinski
Delanie Harkness
Paris mikinski
Paris Mikinski is one of the top high jumpers in the country at the University of Arizona, known for her outstanding athleticism and dedication to her sport. In addition to her impressive track and field career, Paris is a leading influencer in the space, with a combined following of over 100,000 on Instagram and TikTok. Her engaged fan base connects with her content focused on health, fitness, and lifestyle, making her a standout in both athletics and social media.
Lily Jones
Kielyn McCright
Paris mikinski
Lily Jones is a sprinter for the University of Oregon track and field team, known for her speed and fierce determination. Lily’s competitive spirit lights up the track, and she’s pushing toward greater achievements. With an unstoppable drive, she’s one to watch as she continues to make her mark in collegiate athletics!
Bella Nilsen
Kielyn McCright
Kielyn McCright
Bella Nilsen is a talented pole vaulter at the University of Oregon and one of Rise’s original clients. She has built a strong following of 30,000 on Instagram and is known for her dedication to the sport. Bella continues to make strides in collegiate athletics while sharing her journey with a growing online community.
Kielyn McCright
Kielyn McCright
Kielyn McCright
Kielyn McCright is a standout gymnast at Clemson, earning All-ACC honors on Balance Beam in 2024 and competing at the NCAA tournament. She has over 60,000 followers on Instagram and is the most followed female athlete at Clemson. A dedicated student-athlete, Kielyn excels in both gymnastics and academics!
Cami Merickel
Nicole Olivieri
Nicole Olivieri
Cami Merickel is a standout runner at the University of Nebraska, excelling in both track and cross country. With over 30,000 followers, she’s quickly becoming an influential creator in the running community. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten and Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, Cami is known for her athletic and academic dedication, making her a rising star in collegiate sports.
Nicole Olivieri
Nicole Olivieri
Nicole Olivieri
Nicole Olivieri is a talented track athlete at Central Michigan University, known for her passion and energy on the track. Beyond athletics, she thrives as a content creator, engaging with her audience through her dynamic social media presence. Nicole combines her love for track with her growing online platform, creating content that resonates with fans. With her dedication to both sports and social media, she’s on track to make a lasting impact at CMU and in the digital space.
Dea Monz
Nicole Olivieri
Emily Pierce
Dea Monz is a Division 1 track and field athlete at Robert Morris University, passionate about sports, fashion, and travel. Studying health services administration, Dea is focused on her career while also creating content that aligns with her interests. Whether sharing her athletic journey or working with like-minded brands, Dea’s energy and enthusiasm shine through in everything she does, making her a well-rounded and engaging influencer both on and off the track.
Emily Pierce
Emily Pierce
Emily Pierce is a dedicated distance runner for Campbell University, combining athletic excellence with a strong social media presence. She engages actively with her followers, fostering a community that shares her passion for fitness and wellness. Emily is excited to collaborate with brands that align with her values of health and wellness. Ready to create compelling content and promote an active lifestyle, she’s eager to partner with brands that can inspire and motivate her engaged audience.
Tessani Foster
Tessani Foster is a junior pole vaulter for the University of Oklahoma, known for her exceptional performances at major events. She set a personal best of 13-1.50 (4.00m) at the TCU Alumni Invitational and has consistently placed in the top three at the Mt. SAC Relays and John Jacobs Invitational. Tessani is excited to continue pushing her limits as a Sooner, balancing her athletic goals with her academic pursuits at OU. She is determined to make her mark in collegiate track and field.
AVERY BRACHER
Avery Bracher is a rising influencer and athlete on the James Madison University Women’s Soccer team, with over 100,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok. Known for her passion for fitness, travel, beauty, and fashion, Avery creates engaging content that connects with her growing audience. As a dynamic presence both on the field and online, she’s quickly establishing herself as a standout in both the athletic and influencer communities.
Womens basketball
BLANCA THOMAS
MADISON ST. ROSE
BLANCA THOMAS
Blanca Thomas is a 6'5" freshman forward at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Ranked #10 by ESPN and a 5-star recruit, Blanca is already a key player for the Tar Heels. She’s also a proud member of Team USA basketball. With her rare combination of size and skill, she’s poised to make an immediate impact in collegiate basketball and a lasting mark in the sport.
MADDIE WEBBER
MADISON ST. ROSE
BLANCA THOMAS
Maddie Webber is a skilled 5'11" sophomore guard at Villanova University, quickly becoming one of the top players in the Big East Conference. Known for her exceptional basketball IQ, precise skill set, and court vision, Maddie is a rising star with a natural ability to impact the game. With her focus and dedication, her future in college basketball is incredibly bright.
MADISON ST. ROSE
MADISON ST. ROSE
ASHLEY SOFILKANICH
Madison St. Rose is a 5'10" junior guard at Princeton University, emerging as one of the top players in the Ivy League. A Second-Team All-Ivy selection and Ivy League Rookie of the Year, Maddie is known for her scoring, skill set, and court vision. Ranked No. 46 in the ESPNW Class of 2022 and NJ Gatorade Player of the Year, her future in college basketball is bright.
ASHLEY SOFILKANICH
ASHLEY SOFILKANICH
ASHLEY SOFILKANICH
Ashley Sofilkanich is a dominant 6'3" sophomore forward-center at Bucknell University, making a significant impact on the court this season. Recognized as one of the top players in the conference, Ashley’s strong presence and versatile play have established her as a key force in the league. In her freshman year, she earned Third Team All-Patriot League, All-Defensive Team, and All-Rookie Team honors, showcasing her impressive skills and potential.
AVA RENNINGER
ASHLEY SOFILKANICH
AVA RENNINGER
Ava Renninger is a talented and dynamic 5'6" freshman guard at Fairleigh Dickinson University, quickly making her mark this season. A standout player in the conference, she’s known for her versatility, pro-level moves, and ability to shoot off the dribble. Ava has played a key role in leading her team to an undefeated conference season, with impressive performances against UConn and Syracuse in non-conference matchups.
Men's basketball
Sean Moore
Caelum Harris
Caelum Harris
Sean Moore is a senior on the University of North Carolina Wilmington Men's Basketball team, pursuing a master’s in Integrated Marketing Communication. After transferring from Farleigh Dickinson, where he earned Third Team All-NEC honors, Sean gained national attention during the NCAA tournament, leading his team with 19 points in the upset win over #1 Purdue. Known for his defense, Sean is a two-time Defensive Player of the Week and is passionate about building a clothing line.
Caelum Harris
Caelum Harris
Caelum Harris
Caelum Harris is a 6'5" American-Filipino basketball player currently playing for Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, FL. Previously, he competed for the Diamond Doves in the OTE and is also a member of the Philippines National Team. Caelum brings athleticism, versatility, and strong offensive skills to the court as a small forward. Born on February 23, 2005, he’s an exciting young talent with great potential to make an impact both domestically and internationally.
Joshua Hughes
Caelum Harris
Joshua Hughes
Joshua Hughes is a sophomore on the Evansville Men's Basketball team. As a freshman, he played all 35 games, setting a career-high 22 points against Missouri State and leading the team with 38 blocks. He ranked 7th in the MVC with 1.09 blocks per game. Before Evansville, Joshua represented Australia at the 2022 U17 World Cup and played for the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence in the NBL1, averaging 6.9 points and 3.1 rebounds for the team.
Abass Bodija
JaVaughn Hannah
Joshua Hughes
Abass Bodija is a freshman at UC Riverside, known for his standout athleticism and potential. Before joining the Highlanders, Abass played seven games in the NBL1 Australia and represented Queensland on the Under-20 Men’s team. A late-blooming big man with high potential, Abass combines his physical dimensions with impressive perimeter skills. He’s a versatile player with the potential to develop into a key contributor on both ends of the floor for UC Riverside.
Travis roberts
JaVaughn Hannah
JaVaughn Hannah
Travis Roberts is a junior at Marist College, previously playing two seasons at Jacksonville State University. He competed in the Atlantic Sun Conference his freshman year and Conference USA his sophomore year. In his career, Travis scored a career-high 15 points at East Tennessee State in 2022. Prior to college, he was considered one of the top prospects in Maryland and played at Bishop Walsh School, showcasing his all-around scoring and leadership potential.
JaVaughn Hannah
JaVaughn Hannah
JaVaughn Hannah
JaVaughn Hannah is a senior, having played the last three seasons at Western Michigan. During the 2024-2025 season, he averaged 12 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. He earned MAC Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2023-2024. Known for his explosive downhill drive, shot creation, and ability to step up in clutch moments, JaVaughn has solidified himself as a dynamic playmaker. His talent and work ethic make him a player to watch, with a bright future ahead as he looks to take his game to the next level.
Southampton press - Alec small
“Alec is a hardworking, genuine guy who truly wants what’s best for his clients,” said Thomas, a five-star freshman. He is very personable. He makes sure to connect on a weekly basis. This partnership has been beneficial to me because it has allowed me to enter the world of NIL and have one of the best people around to help me navigate it. To me, working with Alec and Rise means opportunity. They have presented me with the opportunity to grow personally and professionally.”
- Blanca Thomas (North Carolina Women's Basketball)
“I have friends signed with other agencies and when comparing I see how lucky I am, because Alec is so hands-on and motivated to secure deals that are worth everyone’s while. He makes sure that his athletes reach their full value and are getting paid to their full potential.”
- Isabella Nilsen (Oregon Track & Field