The Big Three

This week future NBA stars assembled in Chicago for the annual NBA Combine for team and media interviews, medical testing, and on-court drills. The next month leading to the NBA draft will be a whirlwind, culminated by the realization of a lifetime dream. Undoubtedly, the initial decisions these young men and their families make will position them for success on and off the court. Below are three guiding principles that have aided me throughout my career in professional sports. All the best to the young men!

The Big Three:

1. Learning Mindset:

Today’s successful NBA players are activist, investors, community leaders, and most import they are learners. As a rookie, having a learning mindset is necessary for success, but becomes critical as the career evolves. Now is the time to start thinking about the type of impact you want to have in your career- on and off the court. Having a learning mindset will lead to exposure, an enhanced network, and above all continual improvement.   

2. Know your business:

Start the process of learning as much as you can about the sports industry and related companies. Innovation is rapid in and around sports. This is an excellent time to become familiar with the business. There are tons of publications, (I like Sports Business Journal and Sport Techie), podcasts and the timeless interview with industry experts. 

3. Relationships:

There are a lot of great people (some bad, be careful) that you will meet going forward- team owners, executives and staff, and others related to the sports industry (business partners, etc.). Many of the folks you meet early in your career are the same folks that will offer support throughout the different phases of your career. Take the time to know names, say thank you and learn what others do and their path. Today’s video coordinator and intern is tomorrow’s head coach or General Manager.