Teddy Wong's Dumplings & Wine has entered into a Name, Image, and Likeness partnership with Duncan Chan, a standout athlete on the TCU Men's Tennis team. The partnership represents a shared commitment to discipline, consistency, and excellence, values that define both Chan's approach on the court and the restaurant's philosophy at the table.
Owned by Chef-Partner Patrick Ru and Lori and Kevin Cates, Teddy Wong's has long supported local athletics and followed TCU Tennis. The restaurant's owners noted that the precision, endurance, and quiet intensity of tennis closely mirror the standards guiding their kitchen and hospitality. "Tennis has always been a sport we admire for its discipline and focus," said Chef-Partner Patrick Ru and Kevin Cates. "Duncan embodies those qualities. He's thoughtful, hardworking, and deeply committed to improving his craft — values we respect and are proud to support."
Chan, originally from Canada, has quickly made his mark at TCU through his work ethic, competitive drive, and steady progress on the court. He and his teammates are frequent guests at the restaurant, creating what the announcement describes as an authentic connection between Teddy Wong's and the Horned Frogs tennis community. "I'm grateful for the support from Teddy Wong's," said Chan. "It means a lot to partner with a restaurant that values dedication and growth the way TCU Tennis does. Their support motivates me to keep pushing forward."
The NIL partnership reflects Teddy Wong's broader commitment to investing in young talent and supporting the Fort Worth community that has embraced the restaurant since its founding. As Chan continues to build momentum in his collegiate career, the restaurant expressed pride in standing alongside him and supporting his journey both on and off the court. The partnership demonstrates how local businesses can leverage NIL opportunities to support collegiate athletes while aligning with shared values of craftsmanship and excellence.
This collaboration matters because it represents a tangible example of how Texas businesses can directly impact the lives of student-athletes through the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness agreements. For the restaurant industry, it showcases how culinary establishments can extend their brand influence beyond traditional marketing by aligning with local sports programs and athletes who embody their core values. For readers, particularly in the Fort Worth area, it highlights how community-focused businesses are actively participating in supporting TCU athletics and student development.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond a simple sponsorship arrangement. It signals a growing trend where Texas businesses recognize the mutual benefits of investing in collegiate athletes, providing financial support while gaining authentic brand association with disciplined, high-achieving individuals. This model could inspire other Texas restaurants and businesses to explore similar partnerships, potentially creating new revenue streams for student-athletes while strengthening ties between academic institutions and local commerce. The partnership also reinforces the economic impact that collegiate athletics programs can have on surrounding businesses, as demonstrated by the regular patronage of TCU tennis players at Teddy Wong's Dumplings & Wine.
