Kool-Aid McKinstry
Ga'Quincy "Kool-Aid" McKinstry (born September 30, 2002 in Birmingham) is a football player. He was the 2021 Alabama "Mr Football", and the USA Today High School Football Defensive Player of the Year, and an All-American cornerback for the 2023 Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
McKinstry's grandmother gave him his nickname, because his smile reminded her of the Kool-Aid Man. He attended Pinson Valley High School. As a senior for the Indians he broke up 12 passes and returned two interceptions for touchdowns. He also played on offense and scored 11 touchdowns on 45 catches for 706 yards. He led the team to a state title in the 2020 AHSAA Super Seven Championships.
He accepted a scholarship offer from the University of Alabama and started every game during his freshman year. Kraft Heinz's Kool-Aid beverage brand paid him under a name-image-likeness contract.
After his sophomore season, McKinstry declared for the 2024 NFL draft. On March 1 he was diagnosed with a fracture in his right foot. On March 7 the City of Pinson celebrated "Kool-Aid McKinstry Day" and presented him with a proclamation and key to the city. In April the Pinson City Council disputed payment of the $175 cost for a key, and mayor pro-tem Robbie Roberts offered to donate the amount.
References
- Scarborough, Alex (August 18, 2021) "Alabama Crimson Tide freshman Ga'Quincy 'Kool-Aid' McKinstry signs NIL deal with drink company." ESPN
- Prewett, Nathan (March 7, 2024) "Pinson Council honors Alabama player “Kool-Aid” McKinstry with proclamation, key to the city." Trussville Tribune
- Garrison, Greg (April 19, 2024) "Kool-Aid McKinstry’s hometown gives him the key to the city, debates whether to pay for it." AL.com