LAS VEGAS – Quarterback Matthew Sluka, who left UNLV three games into the season over a name, image and likeness dispute, has entered the transfer portal, agent Marcus Cromartie said Thursday.

Sluka’s decision to leave the Rebels after leading them to a 3-0 record sparked a national debate about what kind of precedent this could set. By leaving before playing a fifth game, Sluka was able to enjoy a redshirt season and preserve his final year of eligibility.

Cromartie and Bob Sluka, the quarterback’s father, said Sluka was promised $100,000 in no money to be transferred from Holy Cross, but no payment was ever made.

“I committed to UNLV based on certain representations made to me, which were not upheld after I enrolled,” Sluka posted on X when he announced his departure. “Despite the discussions, it became clear that these commitments would not be respected in the future. I wish my teammates the best of luck this season and look forward to the continued success of the program.

Sluka, a graduate transfer, has not spoken publicly since then.

UNLV then released a statement accusing Sluka’s agent of making “financial demands.”

“UNLV athletics has interpreted these requests as a violation of the NCAA’s pay-for-play rules, as well as Nevada state law,” the school said. “UNLV does not engage in such activities nor does it respond to implied threats. UNLV honored all previously agreed upon scholarships for Matthew Sluka.

Hajj-Malik Williams, a senior transfer from Campbell, replaced Sluka as the starter and passed for 1,017 yards and 12 touchdowns and rushed for 495 yards and five touchdowns. The Rebels are 3-2 under Williams, including a 29-24 loss to Boise State, now No. 15 Friday.

UNLV is 6-2 overall and is eligible for the second straight season, the first time the Rebels have accomplished that in program history.

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