CINCINNATI, February 17, 2026 -- Fifth Third (Nasdaq: FITB) has announced the continuation and expansion of its Name,  Image and Likeness (NIL) program, 'Team Fifth Third,' welcoming a roster of 30 student-athletes and  partnerships across nine universities including Auburn University, Butler University, Florida Atlantic  University, Michigan State University, the University of Cincinnati, the University of Dayton, the University  of Louisville, the University of Michigan and Xavier University.  

As one of the financial industry's first NIL initiatives of its kind, the program centers on a simple belief: the  stories driving student-athletes matter. Team Fifth Third athletes collaborate with the Bank on a social  media series, which spotlights the small yet powerful steps they take on and off the court to compete at  the Division I level. Their experiences are brought to life across the athletes' TikTok and Instagram  channels, as well as Fifth Third's own platforms.  

"Studentâ?'athletes work incredibly hard while competing at an elite level," said Carolyn David, head of  marketing at Fifth Third. "Their stories reflect dedication and resilience, and they deserve to be told. Team  Fifth Third lets us spotlight their hard work, both on and off the court." 

Returning Team Fifth Third captain Ryan Conwell, University of Louisville guard, embodies the grit and  determination of Team Fifth Third athletes. 

"I try not to take any moment for granted. Every step has taken sacrifice, hard work and a commitment to  getting better; my family has been my greatest support system throughout it all," Conwell said. "I'm  grateful to be back with Team Fifth Third this year." 

His experience reflects what Team Fifth Third strives to celebrate and support: the real stories behind  studentâ?'athletes' journeys -- what drives them, and the habits that fuel their success. 

For Macy Brown, University of Michigan guard getting a Fifth Third Better is about going the extra mile.  

"Playing basketball has ingrained discipline, whether in the classroom or the gym. We came here to play  sports, but we also came for the degree and the relationships. That mindset pushes us to grow every  day," Brown said. "That means showing up every day with the same excellence you would in the  classroom, the gym, in your relationships with your friends, and just being willing to go the extra step." 

Team Fifth Third goes beyond sponsorship by connecting passion to purpose, strengthening community  ties and equipping studentâ?'athletes with financial knowledge to succeed beyond the game. Through the  program, athletes have the opportunity to receive personalized financial education, including oneâ?'onâ?'one  coaching from Fifth Third bankers on budgeting, saving and investing.

This program is a continuation of Fifth Third's long-standing relationship with college athletics, with  naming rights for Fifth Third Arena at the University of Cincinnati and Fifth Third Stadium at Kennesaw  State University. Fifth Third also is the Official Bank of University of Dayton Athletics, with Fifth Third  proudly emblazoned on the Flyers' basketball court, and the Official Partner of Xavier Athletics. 

To see the complete roster and learn more about Team Fifth Third visit www.53.com/TeamFifthThird. 

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About Fifth Third 

Fifth Third is a bank that's as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we've been helping  individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives.  Our list of firsts is extensive, and it's one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based  banks to have been named among Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies(R) for several years. With  a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not  only to be the nation's highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust. 

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect  parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ(R) Global Select Market  under the symbol "FITB." Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit  and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

CONTACT 

Jordan DuShane (Media Relations) February 10, 2026 
Jordan.dushane@53.com 

Matt Curoe (Investor Relations) 
matt.curoe@53.com | 513-534-2345 

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