South East Melbourne Phoenix guard Owen Foxwell has reportedly committed to Louisiana State University for next season, a move expected to make him one of the highest-paid Australian athletes.

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Owen Foxwell, 22, is on the verge of a major payday as he prepares to join Louisiana State University in the NCAA next season, despite being contracted with the South East Melbourne Phoenix until 2027.

A post from DraftExpress reported Foxwell will join the program as part of the class of 2026, underlining the growing trend of experienced players taking advantage of NIL opportunities.

Despite his age, Foxwell is already an NBL veteran, coming off his fifth regular season with the Phoenix and one of the strongest campaigns of his career. He averaged 11.1 points, 3.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists across 28 appearances, finishing third in the Next Generation Award race.

His season hasn’t been without drama, with the young guard recently involved in a heated exchange with seven-time Coach of the Year and legend Brian Goorjian during a game last month.

NASHVILLE, TN – MARCH 12: Ben Simmons #25 of the LSU Tigers stands on the court after being charged with a technical foul in the game against the Texas A&M Aggies during the semi-finals of the SEC Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 12, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

The left-handed guard follows a strong lineage of Australians at LSU, including Duop Reath, Ben Simmons and Max Mackinnon.

NIL, short for Name, Image and Likeness, allows college athletes to earn income while competing. With the NCAA market now a billion-dollar industry, and LSU’s program reportedly valued at more than $1.05 billion, Foxwell could become an overnight millionaire if the move is finalised.

While the exact figures remain unclear, the deal could place him on par with, or above, Oscar Cluff, the Gold Coast big man reportedly earning around US$1.5–2.5 million at Purdue University.

Owen Foxwell re-signed with the South East Melbourne Phoenix on a two-year deal last year and is contracted through the end of the 2026-27 NBL season. However, if he finalises a commitment to LSU, the club would likely receive a buyout.

Fox Sports has contacted the Phoenix for comment; the club declined to respond.

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – OCTOBER 12: Owen Foxwell of the South East Melbourne Phoenix reacts during the round four NBL match between New Zealand Breakers and South East Melbourne Phoenix at Spark Arena, on October 12, 2025, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images

More to come.