Eli Ellis Age, Career, Net Worth & Love Life 2026

Eli Ellis age has become one of the most searched topics among college basketball fans and social media followers alike.

At just 20 years old, this basketball prodigy has already accomplished what many players dream of achieving in an entire career.

Born on September 17, 2005, Eli Ellis represents the new generation of athlete-influencers who dominate both on the court and across digital platforms.

From his record-breaking performances in Overtime Elite to his explosive freshman debut with the South Carolina Gamecocks, Eli continues to captivate millions while building a personal brand worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Eli Ellis Quick Facts

Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Eli Ellis
Date of Birth	September 17, 2005
Age	20 years old (as of 2026)
Zodiac Sign	Virgo
Birthplace	Hickory, North Carolina, USA
Height	6’0″ / 6’1″ (183-185 cm)
Weight	185-192 lbs (84-87 kg)
Position	Point Guard / Shooting Guard
Current Team	South Carolina Gamecocks
Jersey Number	#3
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	White (Caucasian)
Religion	Christian
Father	Jeremy Ellis (Basketball Coach)
Brother	Isaac Ellis (Basketball Player)
High School	Moravian Prep Academy
Previous Team	YNG Dreamerz (Overtime Elite)
NIL Valuation	$322,000+ (2025 estimate)
Net Worth	$500,000-$750,000 (2026 estimate)
Relationship Status	Single (as of January 2026)
TikTok Followers	1.4+ million (@eliellis)
Instagram Followers	700,000+ (@eliellis)

Who Is Eli Ellis?

Basketball Prodigy

Eli Ellis is an American college basketball player who represents the South Carolina Gamecocks as a freshman guard during the 2025-26 season.

What sets Eli apart from typical college freshmen is his unconventional path to NCAA basketball. Instead of following the traditional high school route, Eli dominated the Overtime Elite league, becoming a two-time MVP and the league’s all-time leading scorer before making the jump to South Carolina.

His basketball journey began in Hickory, North Carolina, where he grew up in a basketball-loving family. His father, Jeremy Ellis, served as both his mentor and coach throughout his developmental years, instilling in him not just skills but also an unmatched competitive spirit and basketball IQ.

Playing for his father at Moravian Prep Academy, Eli averaged an impressive 16 points per game as a senior, catching the attention of scouts nationwide.

What makes Eli Ellis exceptional is his scoring ability. He possesses elite ball-handling skills, deep shooting range, and fierce competitiveness that translates into game-winning performances.

His flashy playstyle and high basketball IQ allow him to perform under pressure, whether it’s hitting clutch shots or orchestrating the offense. At Overtime Elite, Eli led the YNG Dreamerz to a championship while averaging 32.1 points, 6.7 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game during his final season.

Eli Ellis was ranked as the No. 69 overall player in the country and the No. 9 point guard in his class according to 247Sports. He was also selected to play in the prestigious 2025 Iverson Classic All-American Game, joining the top-26 high school players in the nation.

His commitment to the University of South Carolina under head coach Lamont Paris proved to be a perfect match, as the coaching staff recognized his “real basketball ability” beyond the flashy OTE highlights.

Social Media Sensation

Beyond basketball, Eli Ellis has built an impressive digital empire that rivals his on-court success. His @eliellis TikTok account features a mix of game highlights, dance trends, comedy sketches, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his life as a student-athlete. With 1.4 million followers, Eli has mastered the art of engaging content that resonates with Gen Z audiences.

What separates Eli from other player-influencers is his authenticity and relatability. He doesn’t just post highlight reels; he shares his journey, including struggles, triumphs, and everyday moments that fans connect with.

His content strategy includes collaborations with popular creators like FaZe Rug, showcasing his ability to cross from sports into mainstream entertainment.

Eli’s Instagram account (@eliellis) boasts over 700,000 followers and serves as a platform for brand partnerships, game promotions, university scholarship offers, and travel content.

His social media presence has become so influential that OTE co-founder Dan Porter called him “the most influential player” in the league, highlighting how his digital reach amplifies the sport itself.

His YouTube channel further expands his content offerings, featuring longer-form videos that dive deeper into his basketball journey, training regimens, and personal life.

This multi-platform approach has allowed Eli to monetize his influence through various revenue streams including sponsored posts, NIL deals, and merchandise opportunities.

Eli Ellis Age and Birthday

Eli Ellis age is 20 years old as of 2026. He was born on September 17, 2005, in Hickory, North Carolina, making him a Virgo by zodiac sign.

Virgos are known for their analytical minds, attention to detail, and perfectionist tendencies—traits that clearly manifest in Eli’s methodical approach to basketball and content creation.

When discussing Eli Ellis age, it’s remarkable to consider what he’s accomplished so young. At just 18-19 years old during his time in Overtime Elite, Eli became a two-time MVP, led his team to a championship, and became the league’s all-time leading scorer with multiple 50-point games on his resume. He achieved these milestones before most college freshmen even step foot on campus.

Eli’s youth also contextualizes his social media success. Growing up as a digital native, he intuitively understands platforms like TikTok and Instagram in ways that older generations of athletes struggle with.

His age places him squarely within Gen Z, allowing him to authentically connect with millions of followers who see themselves reflected in his content.

At 20, Eli Ellis is just beginning what could be a remarkable basketball career. Most NBA prospects don’t declare for the draft until age 19-20 at minimum, meaning Eli has several years to develop at South Carolina before potentially pursuing professional basketball.

His age also gives him time to continue growing his brand, building wealth through NIL opportunities, and establishing himself as more than just a basketball player.

The significance of Eli Ellis age extends to his physical development as well. At 6’0″ to 6’1″, some scouts have labeled him as “undersized” for a guard, but Eli continues to prove that skill, intelligence, and competitiveness matter more than height. His youth means he may still have growth potential, though his game has already adapted to succeed regardless of physical stature.

Eli Ellis Career Journey

Early Basketball Beginnings

Eli Ellis’s passion for basketball originated with his father, Jeremy Ellis, who served as both mentor and coach throughout his developmental years.

Growing up in Hickory, North Carolina, Eli was immersed in basketball culture from an early age. His father’s coaching expertise and his younger brother Isaac’s shared love for the game created a competitive yet supportive environment that accelerated Eli’s development.

From youth leagues through middle school, Eli displayed natural talent combined with an extraordinary work ethic. While many young players focus solely on scoring, Eli developed a well-rounded game that included playmaking, defense, and leadership.

His father instilled in him the importance of basketball IQ, teaching him to read defenses, make quick decisions, and perform under pressure.

By the time Eli reached high school, he had already built a reputation as one of North Carolina’s top prospects. His competitive spirit drove him to seek out the highest level of competition available, ultimately leading him to unconventional paths that would define his unique career trajectory.

Moravian Prep Success

Eli Ellis attended Moravian Prep Academy in Hickory, North Carolina, where he played for his father, Jeremy Ellis, who served as head coach.

This father-son dynamic created a unique learning environment where Eli could maximize his development while maintaining the highest standards of accountability.

As a senior at Moravian Prep, Eli averaged an impressive 16 points per game while showcasing his complete skill set. He demonstrated elite ball-handling, deep shooting range, and the ability to create offense both for himself and teammates. His performances caught the attention of college scouts and ranking services, establishing him as a four-star recruit.

Playing for his father taught Eli valuable lessons beyond basketball fundamentals. He learned how to be coachable, accept criticism, and continuously improve despite already being the best player on his team. This foundation would prove invaluable as he transitioned to higher levels of competition.

During his time at Moravian Prep, Eli also began building his social media presence, sharing highlights and behind-the-scenes content that would lay the groundwork for his future as an influencer. The combination of on-court excellence and digital savvy set him apart from traditional prospects.

Overtime Elite Dominance

In 2023, Eli Ellis made the bold decision to leave traditional high school basketball and sign with Overtime Elite (OTE), joining the YNG Dreamerz.

This move represented a significant gamble, as the OTE league was still relatively new and unproven as a pathway to college basketball. However, for Eli, it offered the opportunity to compete against elite talent while getting paid and building his brand.

The decision to join OTE proved transformative. During the 2023-24 season, Eli exploded onto the scene, averaging 33.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game.

His scoring prowess was unmatched, and he became must-watch entertainment for basketball fans. Multiple 50-point performances became his signature, showcasing his ability to take over games completely.

In his final OTE season (2024-25), Eli elevated his game even further. He averaged 32.1 points, 6.7 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game during the 20-game regular season.

His 32.1 points per game average led the entire league by more than five points over the second-place finisher, demonstrating his complete dominance. He also led the league in assists for the first time, proving he could facilitate offense in addition to scoring.

Eli’s performance culminated in back-to-back OTE MVP awards, making him only the second player in league history to achieve this feat after Ausar Thompson, who was later selected in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Under Eli’s leadership, the YNG Dreamerz won the OTE Championship, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s all-time greats.

Perhaps most impressively, Eli became the all-time leading scorer in Overtime Elite history. His multiple 50-point games and consistent production set records that future players will chase for years.

Beyond the numbers, Eli helped legitimize OTE as a viable alternative to traditional high school basketball, proving that players could develop, compete, and maintain NCAA eligibility while getting paid.

OTE co-founder Dan Porter called Eli “the most influential player” in the league, highlighting how his combination of talent and social media presence elevated the entire organization.

Eli’s success attracted more top prospects to the league and increased viewership, demonstrating his value beyond just scoring points.

South Carolina Gamecocks (2025-26 Season)

In May 2025, Eli Ellis officially signed with the University of South Carolina, joining head coach Lamont Paris’s Gamecocks program for the 2025-26 season.

The signing represented a homecoming of sorts, as Eli chose to play in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of college basketball’s most competitive leagues.

During the summer of 2025, Eli arrived in Columbia and immediately impressed coaches with his work ethic and coachability.

Assistant coach Tanner Bronson noted that while Eli was “wired to score,” the staff worked on getting him to “give the ball up sooner and get it back in a more advantageous situation.” The goal wasn’t to diminish Eli’s scoring ability but to help him become more efficient within a team framework.

Head coach Lamont Paris acknowledged on signing day that Eli’s game “is founded in real basketball ability,” addressing concerns that OTE’s style might not translate to college.

Paris emphasized that while OTE sometimes resembles an NBA All-Star Game, Eli possessed fundamental skills that would succeed in structured college basketball.

Eli’s first action in a South Carolina uniform came in an October 26, 2025, exhibition game against NC State. Coming off the bench, Eli exploded for a team-high 23 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 5-of-7 from three-point range.

He also contributed five rebounds and three assists with zero turnovers, showcasing his ability to impact winning beyond just scoring. Despite Eli’s heroics, NC State hit a game-winning three-pointer with 0.5 seconds remaining to win 88-86.

The exhibition performance immediately validated Eli’s transition to college basketball. Critics who questioned whether his OTE success would translate received a definitive answer—Eli’s elite scoring ability and basketball IQ work at any level.

When the regular season began in November 2025, Eli continued producing as South Carolina’s top scoring option off the bench. He averaged over 15 points per game in his first two contests while shooting 44.4 percent from three-point range. His ability to provide instant offense as a sixth man has been crucial for a Gamecocks team looking to compete in the brutal SEC.

Throughout the early 2025-26 season, Eli has embraced feedback from coaches about simplifying his game. “One thing Coach Paris and the staff has really done a good job at is simplifying my game and making it easier for me,” Eli told TheBigSpur.com.

“I’m not limited to anything. There’s a lot of freedom for me. If there’s a last second shot, it’s time to go get a bucket, and that’s what they expect me to do.”

The South Carolina fanbase has embraced Eli enthusiastically, with his jersey becoming one of the top sellers. His social media presence has also boosted the program’s visibility, attracting recruits and generating excitement around Gamecocks basketball.

Career Statistics and Achievements

Season	Team	Games	PPG	APG	RPG	SPG	Achievements
2021-22	Moravian Prep	–	21.9	–	–	–	Four-star recruit
2022-23 (Senior)	Moravian Prep	–	16.0	–	–	–	Top North Carolina prospect
2023-24	YNG Dreamerz (OTE)	20	33.4	5.1	6.1	–	OTE MVP
2024-25	YNG Dreamerz (OTE)	20	32.1	6.7	5.7	1.7	OTE MVP, Champion, All-time leading scorer
2025-26	South Carolina	2+	15.5+	3.0+	5.0+	–	Ongoing freshman season

Career Highlights:

• Two-time Overtime Elite MVP (2024, 2025)
• OTE All-time leading scorer
• Multiple 50-point games in OTE
• OTE Champion (2025)
• 247Sports Top-26 All-American
• Iverson Classic All-American (2025)
• Four-star recruit (#69 overall, #9 point guard)
• Led OTE in scoring (32.1 PPG) and assists (6.7 APG) in 2024-25
• 23-point debut exhibition for South Carolina
• Under Armour NIL partner
• 1.4 million TikTok followers
• Named “most influential player” in OTE by co-founder Dan Porter

Eli Ellis Net Worth 2026

Eli Ellis net worth is estimated at $500,000-$750,000 as of 2026, a remarkable figure for a 20-year-old college freshman.

This wealth has been accumulated through a combination of Overtime Elite salary, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, social media monetization, brand partnerships, and various entrepreneurial ventures. Eli represents the new generation of student-athletes who can profit from their talents while still in college.

NIL Valuation and Deals

According to multiple sources, Eli Ellis’s NIL valuation stands at approximately $322,000 as of 2025, making him one of the most valuable freshman basketball players in the country.

This valuation is based on his social media following, engagement rates, on-court performance, and marketability to brands targeting Gen Z consumers.

Eli’s most significant NIL partnership is with Under Armour, the athletic apparel and footwear company. This deal provides Eli with free gear, performance apparel, and compensation for wearing and promoting Under Armour products.

The partnership makes sense given Eli’s focus on performance and style, as he consistently showcases Under Armour clothing in his social media content and during games.

Beyond Under Armour, Eli has launched his own community platform on Skool.com where he charges members $189 per year for exclusive basketball training content, tips, and behind-the-scenes access.

This entrepreneurial move demonstrates business savvy beyond his years, as he monetizes his expertise and influence directly rather than relying solely on traditional endorsements.

Other potential NIL opportunities for Eli include:

• Local South Carolina businesses seeking to partner with Gamecocks athletes
• Basketball training companies wanting his endorsement for products and programs
• Energy drinks and sports nutrition brands targeting young athletes
• Gaming and tech companies looking to reach his predominantly Gen Z audience
• Clothing and fashion brands capitalizing on his influencer status

The NCAA’s NIL rules have transformed college athletics, and Eli Ellis is perfectly positioned to maximize these opportunities. His combination of basketball talent and social media influence makes him more valuable than players who excel at only one or the other.

Social Media Earnings

Eli Ellis’s social media presence generates significant income beyond traditional NIL deals. With 1.4 million TikTok followers and 700,000 Instagram followers, Eli commands substantial rates for sponsored content.

TikTok Monetization:

• Creator Fund payments (estimated $2,000-$5,000 monthly based on views)
• Sponsored posts ($5,000-$15,000 per post depending on brand and requirements)
• Brand partnerships and long-term deals
• TikTok Shop affiliate earnings
• Estimated annual TikTok income: $50,000-$100,000

Instagram Earnings:

• Sponsored posts ($3,000-$10,000 per post)
• Story promotions ($1,000-$3,000 per story)
• Brand ambassadorships
• Affiliate marketing commissions
• Estimated annual Instagram income: $40,000-$80,000

YouTube Revenue:

• Ad revenue from videos (estimated $3,000-$8,000 per 100,000 views)
• Sponsorships and integrations
• YouTube Partner Program payments
• Estimated annual YouTube income: $15,000-$30,000

These social media earnings are particularly impressive because they represent passive income streams that continue growing as Eli’s following expands. Even during the basketball season when he’s focused on games and academics, his content continues generating revenue.

Income Sources Breakdown

Revenue Stream	Annual Estimate (2025-26)	Details
NIL Deals (Under Armour, etc.)	$150,000-$250,000	Endorsements, appearance fees, product deals
TikTok Earnings	$50,000-$100,000	Creator Fund, sponsored content, brand deals
Instagram Earnings	$40,000-$80,000	Sponsored posts, stories, ambassadorships
YouTube Revenue	$15,000-$30,000	Ad revenue, sponsorships, partnerships
Skool.com Community	$20,000-$40,000	$189/year membership fees (estimated 100-200 members)
Merchandise (if applicable)	$10,000-$25,000	Personal merchandise, collaborations
Appearance Fees/Camps	$25,000-$50,000	Basketball camps, clinics, events
TOTAL ANNUAL INCOME	$310,000-$575,000	Estimated 2025-26 earnings

It’s important to note that Eli was also paid during his time at Overtime Elite, though exact figures aren’t publicly disclosed.

OTE players receive six-figure salaries plus bonuses, housing, and benefits. Over his two years in the league, Eli likely earned $200,000-$400,000 from OTE alone.

When combined with his early social media earnings and current NIL income, Eli Ellis’s total accumulated wealth reaching $500,000-$750,000 by age 20 becomes entirely plausible. Unlike many college freshmen who enter school with debt, Eli has built substantial wealth before his 21st birthday.

His financial future looks even brighter. As he continues developing at South Carolina and potentially pursues professional basketball, his earning potential multiplies.

Even if he doesn’t make the NBA, Eli’s established brand and business acumen position him for long-term financial success through coaching, content creation, or entrepreneurship.

Eli Ellis Love Life and Girlfriend 2026

Current Relationship Status

As of January 2026, Eli Ellis is currently single and not dating anyone publicly. According to multiple sources and his own social media activity, Eli is focused primarily on his basketball career at South Carolina and building his personal brand rather than pursuing romantic relationships.

The question “Does Eli Ellis have a girlfriend?” consistently trends among his fans, particularly teenage and young adult followers who are curious about his personal life.

While Eli occasionally posts content referencing relationships or dating, these typically consist of comedy sketches, trending audio clips, or humorous takes rather than actual relationship updates.

In November 2025, Eli posted a TikTok video using the audio “POV: Now that my brother has a gf I never see him anymore” referencing his younger brother Isaac Ellis, who apparently has a girlfriend.

The video was lighthearted and comedic, showing Eli’s willingness to joke about relationship topics while not revealing his own status.

Dating History and Privacy

Throughout his rise to fame, Eli Ellis has maintained strict privacy regarding his romantic life. Unlike some athletes and influencers who publicize relationships for engagement, Eli has chosen to keep this aspect of his life largely off social media.

There have been occasional rumors and speculation among fans, particularly when Eli appears in videos or photos with female friends or collaborators. However, none of these rumors have been confirmed, and Eli has not publicly dated anyone during his time in the spotlight.

One notable TikTok video from earlier in 2025 showed Eli participating in a “girlfriend reveal” trend, but this turned out to be promotional content for his YouTube channel rather than an actual relationship announcement. The video accumulated over 57,000 likes, demonstrating the high level of fan interest in his personal life.

In another instance, OTE’s official TikTok account posted a video with the caption “Eli’s new girl got him feeling different,” which received over 200,000 likes.

However, this was revealed to be comedy content rather than confirmation of a relationship, though it sparked intense speculation among fans.

Eli’s approach to dating appears thoughtful and mature for his age. He’s expressed in content with his brother Isaac that relationships should develop naturally and shouldn’t be rushed.

This wisdom likely comes from watching peers navigate public relationships at young ages, often with negative consequences when breakups occur.

Privacy and Personal Life

Eli Ellis’s decision to keep his romantic life private demonstrates maturity beyond his 20 years. In an era where many young influencers share every detail of their lives for content, Eli has established clear boundaries about what he will and won’t share with his 2+ million combined social media followers.

This privacy strategy has several benefits:

• Career Focus: By avoiding public relationships, Eli eliminates potential distractions during his crucial freshman season at South Carolina. College basketball demands intense focus, and relationship drama could derail his development.
• Brand Protection: Public breakups can damage an influencer’s brand and alienate portions of their audience. By keeping relationships private, Eli avoids this risk entirely.
• Personal Space: Despite his fame, Eli deserves aspects of life that aren’t performed for millions of viewers. Privacy in relationships allows authentic connection without public pressure.
• Family Values: Growing up in a Christian household with strong family bonds, Eli likely values the sanctity of romantic relationships and prefers to build them away from public scrutiny.

Eli has mentioned his Christian faith occasionally, including references to favorite Bible verses like Jeremiah 29:11. This faith background may influence his approach to dating and relationships, prioritizing meaningful connections over casual dating for content.

His primary focus in 2026 remains clear: basketball development, academic success at South Carolina, and building his personal brand. At 20 years old and in his freshman year of college, Eli has plenty of time to pursue relationships when the timing is right.

Fans should respect Eli’s privacy while appreciating the authentic basketball and lifestyle content he does share. His decision to keep certain aspects of his life private actually makes his public content more genuine, as he shares what he’s comfortable with rather than manufacturing drama for engagement.

Eli Ellis Height and Physical Stats

Eli Ellis stands at 6 feet 0 inches to 6 feet 1 inch tall (183-185 cm), depending on the source. His height has been a topic of discussion throughout his career, with some scouts labeling him as “undersized” for a guard at the college and professional levels. However, Eli has consistently proven that skill, basketball IQ, and competitiveness matter far more than height.

Physical Attributes

Physical Stat	Measurement
Height	6’0″ – 6’1″ (183-185 cm)
Weight	185-192 lbs (84-87 kg)
Position	Point Guard / Shooting Guard
Build	Athletic, lean, explosive
Wingspan	Not publicly disclosed (estimated 6’3″-6’4″)
Vertical Leap	Not publicly disclosed (appears to be 35″+ based on game film)
Body Fat %	Estimated 8-10% (peak athlete condition)

At 6’0″ to 6’1″, Eli Ellis is not particularly tall by basketball standards, especially compared to NBA guards who average around 6’3″ to 6’5″.

However, countless successful NBA players have thrived at similar heights, including Chris Paul (6’0″), Kyle Lowry (6’0″), Isaiah Thomas (5’9″), and Payton Pritchard (6’1″)—the latter being one of Eli’s favorite players to watch.

Eli’s listed weight of 185-192 pounds represents a good balance for his position. He’s strong enough to absorb contact and finish through defenders but light enough to maintain elite quickness and explosiveness. His lean build contributes to his ability to change direction quickly and accelerate past defenders.

Overcoming the “Undersized” Narrative

Throughout his career, Eli has faced questions about whether his height would limit his potential. Critics wondered if he could score against taller, longer defenders at the college level after dominating Overtime Elite.

His explosive 23-point debut exhibition against NC State silenced many doubters, proving his game translates regardless of opponent size.

Eli’s success despite height concerns stems from several factors:

• Elite Ball-Handling: His handles allow him to create separation even against longer defenders. He can dribble at multiple speeds and heights, making it difficult for defenders to strip him.
• Deep Shooting Range: Eli can shoot from well beyond the three-point line, forcing defenders to guard him 30 feet from the basket. This spacing creates driving lanes and makes his height less relevant.
• Basketball IQ: His court vision and decision-making allow him to find advantages before physical matchups become issues. He processes the game quickly and makes smart reads.
• Competitive Fire: Eli plays with a chip on his shoulder, using height doubts as motivation to prove critics wrong through performance.
• Strength and Finishing: Despite his size, Eli finishes effectively through contact. He’s strong enough to absorb hits and skilled enough to use angles and English on shots.

Head coach Lamont Paris addressed the height question directly: “His game is founded in real basketball ability.” This statement emphasized that Eli’s skills would succeed at any level because they’re built on fundamentals rather than physical advantages.

Physical Development and Future Growth

At 20 years old, Eli may still have some physical development ahead. While most height growth has likely concluded, he can continue adding strength, improving conditioning, and refining his body for elite performance.

South Carolina’s strength and conditioning program will help Eli add functional muscle without sacrificing speed or explosiveness. Increased strength will help him finish through contact more consistently and defend stronger guards in the SEC.

His athleticism remains one of his biggest assets. Eli displays excellent first-step quickness, acceleration, and body control. These traits, combined with his skills, make him a dynamic offensive threat regardless of height limitations.

Eli Ellis Family Background

Jeremy Ellis (Father/Coach)

Jeremy Ellis is Eli’s father and has been his primary basketball mentor throughout his life. Jeremy served as head coach at Moravian Prep Academy, where he coached Eli during his high school career.

This father-son dynamic created a unique learning environment that accelerated Eli’s development while maintaining high accountability standards.

Jeremy’s coaching philosophy emphasizes fundamentals, basketball IQ, and competitive excellence. He instilled in Eli not just skills but also the mental approach needed to succeed at elite levels.

Their relationship combines parental love with coaching discipline, creating a balanced dynamic that has clearly worked given Eli’s success.

During Eli’s time at Moravian Prep, Jeremy pushed his son harder than other players precisely because he knew Eli’s potential. This tough-love approach prepared Eli for the criticism and high expectations he would face at Overtime Elite and South Carolina.

Beyond technical coaching, Jeremy taught Eli important life lessons about work ethic, humility, and handling success. He emphasized that talent alone wouldn’t be enough—sustained excellence requires dedication, sacrifice, and continuous improvement.

The father-son relationship extends beyond basketball. Jeremy has been Eli’s biggest supporter and advocate, helping navigate recruiting decisions, NIL opportunities, and the transition to college life. Their bond represents the ideal mentor-mentee relationship grounded in family love.

Isaac Ellis (Brother)

Isaac Ellis is Eli’s younger brother and also an elite basketball prospect. Isaac currently plays for Overtime Elite with the YNG Dreamerz, following in his older brother’s footsteps. The sibling dynamic has created both competition and collaboration, pushing both brothers to excel.

Growing up, Eli and Isaac spent countless hours playing basketball together, creating a competitive environment that accelerated their development. Having a talented brother meant always having a workout partner, one-on-one opponent, and teammate to practice with.

Isaac has committed to joining the South Carolina Gamecocks in the 2026 recruiting class, meaning the Ellis brothers will reunite as teammates at the college level. This reunion excites Gamecocks fans who anticipate the chemistry and competitiveness the siblings will bring to the program.

In November 2025, Eli posted a humorous TikTok video lamenting that he doesn’t see Isaac as much anymore now that his brother has a girlfriend. The lighthearted content showed the close bond between the brothers and Eli’s playful personality.

Isaac’s own basketball success validates the Ellis family’s basketball genes and coaching. With both sons achieving elite-level success, Jeremy Ellis’s coaching approach and the family’s supportive environment clearly create ideal conditions for player development.

The prospect of Eli and Isaac playing together at South Carolina has generated significant excitement. Their shared experiences, competitive nature, and complementary skills could create special on-court chemistry reminiscent of famous basketball brother duos.

Eli Ellis Social Media Presence

TikTok Success

Eli Ellis’s TikTok account (@eliellis) stands as his most successful social media platform with 1.4 million followers and growing.

His content strategy brilliantly balances basketball highlights with trending audio, comedy sketches, and authentic behind-the-scenes glimpses into his life as a student-athlete influencer.

What makes Eli’s TikTok successful is authenticity. Unlike athletes who only post highlight reels, Eli embraces trends, participates in comedy content, and shows vulnerability. This approachable persona resonates with Gen Z audiences who value realness over perfection.

His most popular TikTok videos include:

• Game highlights and performances: Showcasing his elite scoring ability and clutch moments
• Dance challenges: Participating in trending dances demonstrates his personality beyond basketball
• Comedy sketches: Relatable content about relationships, family, and college life
• Behind-the-scenes content: Practice footage, locker room moments, travel videos
• Collaborations: Content with his brother Isaac, teammates, and other creators

Eli’s engagement rates on TikTok remain exceptionally high, with videos regularly receiving hundreds of thousands of views and tens of thousands of likes. This engagement translates directly to monetization opportunities and increased NIL valuation.

The platform has also helped Eli connect directly with fans who might never attend a South Carolina game in person. His followers feel invested in his journey because they’ve watched his development through regular content updates.

Instagram Growth

Eli’s Instagram account (@eliellis) serves a different purpose than TikTok, focusing more on aspirational content, brand partnerships, and game promotions. With over 700,000 followers, his Instagram represents a more curated version of his personal brand.

His Instagram content includes:

• Game day posts: Pre-game fits, hype posts, result announcements
• Training content: Workout videos, skill development, gym sessions –
• Lifestyle posts: Travel photos, fashion content, daily life moments –
• Brand partnerships: Sponsored posts for Under Armour and other NIL partners –
• Team content: Photos and videos with South Carolina teammates –
• Family moments: Content featuring his brother Isaac and father Jeremy

Instagram’s format favors longer captions and more polished visuals, which Eli uses to tell deeper stories about his journey. His aesthetic remains consistent, featuring high-quality photography and videography that elevates his personal brand.

The platform also serves as his primary avenue for announcing major news like game results, awards, and partnership deals. When he signed with South Carolina or secured his Under Armour deal, Instagram was where official announcements appeared.

Eli’s Instagram Stories provide more frequent, casual updates including practice clips, meal prep content, study sessions, and interactions with fans. This consistent posting keeps followers engaged between main feed posts.

YouTube Content

While not as developed as his TikTok and Instagram, Eli’s YouTube channel offers longer-form content that provides deeper insights into his life and basketball journey. YouTube’s format allows for extended storytelling that wouldn’t work on shorter-form platforms.

His YouTube content includes:

• Game vlogs: Full coverage of game days from arrival to post-game interviews
• Training videos: Detailed breakdowns of workouts, drills, and skill development
• Q&A sessions: Answering fan questions about basketball, college life, and personal topics
• Collaboration videos: Content with other creators, teammates, and family members
• Documentary-style content: Looking back at his journey from youth basketball to college

YouTube monetization provides additional income through ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate links. While his subscriber count is lower than his TikTok and Instagram followers, YouTube content typically generates higher CPM (cost per thousand views) rates.

The platform also allows Eli to archive his journey in more permanent, searchable formats. Years from now, fans can watch his evolution from Overtime Elite MVP to South Carolina Gamecock to whatever comes next in his career.

Eli Ellis Facts and Trivia

• Two-Time MVP History: Eli Ellis is only the second player in Overtime Elite history to win back-to-back MVP awards, joining Ausar Thompson who was later drafted by the Houston Rockets in the 2023 NBA Draft.
• OTE All-Time Leading Scorer: Despite playing just two seasons in Overtime Elite, Eli became the league’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing players who competed for longer periods.
• Multiple 50-Point Games: Eli has recorded multiple 50-point games throughout his career, showcasing his elite scoring ability and ability to take over contests completely.
• Family Reunion at South Carolina: Eli’s younger brother Isaac has committed to joining the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2026, meaning the Ellis brothers will reunite as college teammates.
• Father-Coach Dynamic: Eli played for his father Jeremy Ellis at Moravian Prep Academy, creating a unique father-son coaching relationship that accelerated his development.
• Christian Faith: Eli’s favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11 (“For I know the plans I have for you”), reflecting his Christian upbringing and faith that guides his life decisions.
• Favorite NBA Players: Eli cites Luka Dončić and Payton Pritchard as his favorite professional players to watch and learn from, both of whom are skilled guards with high basketball IQ.
• FaZe Rug Collaboration: Eli collaborated with popular YouTuber FaZe Rug, showcasing his ability to cross from sports into mainstream entertainment and creator culture.
• Under Armour Partnership: As an Under Armour athlete, Eli represents one of the brand’s emerging young stars in basketball, joining a roster that includes elite college and professional players.
• Skool.com Entrepreneur: At just 20 years old, Eli launched his own basketball training community on Skool.com charging $189 annually, demonstrating business savvy beyond his years.
• 23-Point Debut: In his first exhibition game wearing a South Carolina uniform, Eli exploded for 23 points on 7-of-10 shooting, immediately validating his transition to college basketball.
• “Most Influential Player”: Overtime Elite co-founder Dan Porter called Eli “the most influential player” in the league, recognizing how his social media presence elevated the entire organization.
• Led in Scoring AND Assists: During his final OTE season, Eli led the entire league in both points per game (32.1) and assists per game (6.7), a rare dual achievement.
• September 17 Birthday: Eli shares his birthday with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes, both celebrating on September 17.
• Hickory, NC Roots: Eli grew up in Hickory, North Carolina, a town with a rich basketball tradition that helped shape his competitive spirit and fundamental skills.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Eli Ellis age of 20 represents just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable basketball and entrepreneurial journey.

From his early days learning the game from his father in Hickory, North Carolina, to dominating Overtime Elite as a two-time MVP and all-time leading scorer, to now making an impact as a South Carolina Gamecock freshman, Eli has consistently exceeded expectations and proven doubters wrong.

What makes Eli Ellis special isn’t just his basketball ability, though his 32.1 points per game in OTE and explosive college debut speak volumes about his talent. It’s his unique combination of on-court excellence and digital influence that sets him apart from traditional athletes.

With 1.4 million TikTok followers and 700,000 Instagram followers, Eli has built a personal brand that transcends basketball, creating multiple income streams and opportunities that most college freshmen could never imagine.

His estimated net worth of $500,000-$750,000 at age 20 demonstrates the power of the modern athlete-influencer model.

Through NIL deals like his Under Armour partnership, social media monetization, and entrepreneurial ventures like his Skool.com basketball community, Eli has achieved financial independence before even completing his freshman year of college.

This financial foundation provides security while allowing him to focus on basketball development without the pressure many athletes face.