1. Tell Us About Yourself and Your Current Role
I am currently a Production Assistant with the National Basketball Association, working in social and digital content. I have been blessed to wear many different hats at the NBA throughout my first two seasons. This includes taking a leadership role in our content center, social media publishing on the NBA, WNBA and NBA G League handles, as well as assisting in the planning of various other initiatives.
2. Where do you see yourself in 15 years/dream job?
I would not narrow it down as seeing myself in a certain role or having a dream job in the next 15 years. I see it more as a journey rather than eventually arriving at a destination. My personal mission statement working at the NBA is to grow the game of basketball and the global brand that is the NBA. If I am continuing to accomplish that mission in a decision-making role 15 years down the road I would be truly thankful.
3. Who is your mentor at this point?
We’re able to learn and grow from everybody we work with; therefore I have several groups of people that have had a profound impact on my life and early career. The first people that come to mind is Bob Huggins and the men’s basketball staff at West Virginia University. They took me in as family and taught me the value of hard work and loyalty. Throughout my undergrad, I was introduced to Drew Boe and Managers On A Mission. That led to a three-week mission trip to Nairobi, Kenya during the summer of 2016 and memories that will stick with me forever. The importance of faith and the value of relationships have been truly emphasized with this great group of people. Lastly, the NBA family is a cohesive unit all looking to grow both individually and as company. “Compete with intensity, lead with integrity and inspire play” is at the core of every project.
4. What’s one thing you’ve learned early in your career that you didn’t know until you started working in the industry?
One of my first lessons at the NBA was the realization of how quickly this industry is evolving. Technology is progressing constantly. The impact of sports is felt stronger both on and off the field. Athletes and leagues are global brands, and connect with fans on a higher level. The world is connecting at a rapid pace, and being at the forefront of that change is an exciting time to enter this field.
5. What does winning the Rising 25 Award mean to you?
It means a lot to my family and I. Being the oldest of four boys, and setting the example for them has been a great journey for all of us. With this, we are able to reflect on those moments. I’m thankful Front Office Sports has allowed for that to occur, while at the same time using this as a platform to connect and grow amongst an impressive group of individuals.
