For the Cavinder twins, what started as driveway one-on-ones and sibling rivalries has grown into a shared spotlight, a business brand, and now, a new chapter beyond college basketball. As they step into life after their successful careers NCAA, the American twins are proving their story was never just about the game.
Hanna and Haley first rose to prominence during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, building a social media following that now approaches five million.
At the same time, they became two of the most recognizable faces in college athletics during a transformative era.
Their rise coincided with the NCAA‘s 2021 decision to allow athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), a shift that the Cavinder twins helped define.
Through endorsements and branding, they quickly became pioneers in the new landscape, balancing performance on the court with a growing business presence off it.
Both sisters played at multiple programs, including Fresno State and the University of Miami, while Haley later returned from retirement to suit up for Texas Christian University.
Hanna, meanwhile, chose to step away from competition but remained closely involved alongside her sister. Now, following graduation, they are transitioning into a different kind of spotlight.
A special matchup on the court
The twins have partnered with BetMGM for the “Court of Legends” experience at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, tied to the final weekend of the NCAA Division I basketball tournament.
The event will even feature a one-on-one matchup between the two-bringing their lifelong rivalry full circle in a new setting.
Despite stepping away from college competition, their connection to the sport remains strong. For years, competition has been a defining part of their relationship.
If one completed an extra rep in the gym, the other would immediately try to outdo it. Even everyday disagreements – from who would drive to school or handle chores – were often settled on the court.
That dynamic hasn’t disappeared, but it has matured: “We’ve cooled off a little,” the twins admitted.
Beyond competition, the Cavinder twins are also beginning to define themselves individually, even as they continue to operate as a duo.
A close bond despite rivalry
Haley – the fiancee of Dallas Cowboys star Jake Ferguson – describes Hanna as the “heartbeat” of their brand, someone who can manage multiple responsibilities with ease.
Hanna, in turn, points to Haley‘s mental focus and awareness as one of her defining strengths.
That mutual respect has been key to their longevity, both as athletes and as public figures.
Their influence, however, extends beyond business or basketball. With a large platform comes responsibility-something both sisters openly acknowledge.
“Whether it’s basketball or just giving advice… we have a huge responsibility to encourage and uplift girls,” Hanna said.
That mindset reflects a shift in their journey. While basketball introduced them to the world, their impact now lies in how they use that visibility, especially for younger athletes navigating the same opportunities they once pioneered.
The rivalry that once defined the Cavinders still exists, but it now fuels their shared mission to grow, inspire, and redefine what life after college sports can look like.
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