How about this for a surprise? Matt Mills, who has made 23-career starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and scored one top-five finish, will be the successor for Carson Hocevar in the No. 42 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado. Mills, who will run the full NASCAR Truck Series campaign, will have primary sponsorship from J.F. Electric and Utilitra.
The race team made the announcement in the form of a press release on Thursday morning. Mills, who started opening some eyes in a part-time stint with Kyle Busch Motorsports this season, is pumped for the opportunity with the Niece organization in 2024.
“I’m really excited to join the Niece Motorsports team for the full Truck Series season next year,” said Mills. “This is a great opportunity for me to get into top-tier equipment. It felt good to get on track this year and show speed, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue that. I’m so thankful to everyone at J.F. Electric and Utilitra for believing in me and their continued support.”
For Niece Motorsports, seeing how Mills performed in top-flight equipment at KBM was the determining factor on making him the latest addition to their truck team, which has served as the launching pad for several drivers including Ross Chastain and Hocevar.
“I think a lot of people took notice of Matt this year at Richmond and Milwaukee,” said Niece Motorsports General Manager Cody Efaw. “He’ll be a great addition to our organization as we look to continue the success the 42 team had this season. Matt has a lot of laps under his belt in both the Truck and Xfinity Series. It’s tough to get in these trucks just a few times a year and show speed like Matt did, so I think there will be a lot of growth next season as he’s able to race week after week.”
J.F. Electric, and Utilitra which have been a longstanding supporters of Mills’ racing endeavors is also excited to continue the journey with Mills.
“J.F. Electric and Utilitra are thrilled to continue our sponsorship of Matt Mills as he signs on for a full-time racing commitment in the 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season with Niece Motorsports,” said J.F. Electric CEO Greg Fowler. “Our support stems from a strong belief in Matt’s hard work and driving capabilities, and with the solid backing of the Niece Motorsports team, we are optimistic about the prospects of the upcoming season. The combination of Matt’s driving skills and Niece Motorsports experienced racing team lays the foundation for a season filled with excitement and potential.”
The 26-year-old Mills, in addition to his 23 career starts in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, has made 123 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts, and one start in the NASCAR Cup Series. While Mills doesn’t have a lot of top finishes or career accolades, he has never truly been in contending equipment until his two races in KBM equipment at Richmond and Milwaukee.
