The Players Trunk Net Worth 2025: How a Rejected Shark Tank Deal Turned Into a $10M NIL Powerhouse
The Players Trunk Net Worth 2025 sits at $10M after turning down a Shark Tank deal and building a sports memorabilia empire.
In 2025, The Players Trunk is thriving with an estimated valuation of $10 million, despite walking away from a Shark Tank deal in 2022. This athlete-founded startup has become a leader in the sports memorabilia space, proving that betting on yourself can pay off big.
The Players Trunk: Empowering Athletes Through Memorabilia
Founded in 2020 by Charles Matthews, Zavier Simpson, Jason Lansing, and brothers Austin and Hunter Pomerantz, The Players Trunk is an online marketplace where former college athletes sell their game-worn gear, autographed items, and personalized experiences directly to fans.
The platform capitalized on the NCAA’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy changes, allowing athletes to monetize their personal brand.
The company gained national attention when it appeared on Shark Tank Season 13, Episode 24, which aired on May 20, 2022. The founders pitched their business, seeking investment to scale their operations and expand their reach.
Turning Down the Sharks: A Bold Move
During their Shark Tank pitch, The Players Trunk founders asked for $650,000 in exchange for 5% equity, valuing the company at $13 million.
Mark Cuban and guest shark Kevin Hart saw potential and offered $650,000 for 30% equity. The founders countered with $750,000 for 7.5%, but the Sharks declined, and no deal was made.
We believed in our vision and knew our worth. Walking away was tough, but it was the right decision for our company.” — Charles Matthews, Co-Founder
If you were a Shark, would you have invested in The Players Trunk during their pitch?
Despite the rejection, the exposure from Shark Tank proved invaluable. The Players Trunk experienced a significant increase in website traffic and sales, demonstrating the power of national television exposure.
RELATED: 9 REJECTED SHARK TANK PITCHES THAT MADE MILLIONS
The Players Trunk Pitch on Shark Tank (Quick info card)
| Company name | The Players Trunk |
| Product | A marketplace that sells player-owned and game-worn gear |
| Episode | Season 13 Episode 24 |
| Founders | Charles Matthews, Hunter Pomerantz, Austin Pomerantz, and Jason Lansing |
| Asked for | $650,000 for 5% Equity |
| Final deal | None |
| Shark | None |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
Post-Shark Tank Success: Scaling New Heights
Following their Shark Tank appearance, The Players Trunk saw a 300% increase in sales, a 200% growth in athlete partnerships, and a 150% expansion in their customer base. The company introduced new offerings, including limited edition trading cards and a dedicated auction platform for signed gear.
To meet growing demand, the team streamlined operations, invested in automation, and expanded their staff. They also secured funding from investors like Starting Line, further solidifying their financial foundation.
The Shark Tank exposure was a catalyst. It validated our concept and opened doors we hadn’t imagined.” — Jason Lansing, Co-Founder
The Players Trunk Net Worth 2025: A $10 Million Valuation
As of 2025, The Players Trunk boasts an estimated net worth of $10 million. This valuation is supported by their impressive sales growth, successful funding rounds, and expanding athlete network.
Their decision to decline the Shark Tank deal allowed them to retain more equity and control over their business, leading to greater long-term gains.
RELATED: 8 “SHARK TANK” PRODUCTS WORTH YOUR MONEY
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Innovation
The Players Trunk continues to innovate, exploring opportunities to expand into professional sports memorabilia and international markets. They are also developing new digital experiences to enhance fan engagement.
The founders remain actively involved, leveraging their firsthand experience as former athletes to guide the company’s direction. Their commitment to empowering athletes and connecting them with fans remains at the heart of their mission.
FAQs
Is The Players Trunk still in business in 2025?
Yes, The Players Trunk is actively operating and expanding its offerings in 2025.
Did The Players Trunk get a deal on Shark Tank?
No, the founders declined an offer from Mark Cuban and Kevin Hart, choosing to pursue growth independently.
What is The Players Trunk’s estimated net worth in 2025?
The company is valued at approximately $10 million, based on sales and funding data.
Where can I buy memorabilia from The Players Trunk?
Authentic athlete gear and collectibles are available on their official website: theplayerstrunk.com.
🔹 TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
The Players Trunk Net Worth 2025 is estimated at $10 million after walking away from a Shark Tank deal and thriving independently.
