“The NBA remains steadfast in continuing to develop and execute strategies that support increasing diversity across the enterprise.” – Kyle Cavanaugh, NBA President of Administration
Now in its second year, the NBA HBCU Fellowship continues its mission to provide career development around the business and operations of the game, as well as offer touchstones that reflect the culturally relevant experience of attending an HBCU.
“The paid fellowship program with the NBA and teams is designed to provide career development around the business and operations of the game, as well as offer touchstones that reflect the culturally relevant experience of attending an HBCU.”
Beyond talent recruitment, the NBA’s intent is foster community and connection to link fellows with prominent Black executives within the NBA ecosystem.
Graduate student, Desirae Christie, shared thoughts on her experience interning with the Brooklyn Nets and the Sacramento Kings last Summer. Her overarching reaction was that the time she spent at these organizations “brought the power of image and change.” Her time with the Nets, in particular, included the opportunity to speak with the youth from a Brooklyn elementary school.
“The kids nowadays aren’t coming up with questions like ‘what’s your name?’ They want to know the real you. In those moments, I knew exactly why I was meant to be where I was. It’s imperative that I continue to be a catalyst for educated Black females,” said Christie.
Other students who have gotten the opportunity to be a part of the Fellowship also have similar sentiments.
“I understand regardless of where I come from if I am equipped with the skills, capabilities, and humility to be successful in this field, my opportunities can be boundless.” – Jeffrey Graham, Hampton University Senior, Marketing Major
In recent years, the NBA has truly done an excellent job in not only putting a spotlight on HBCU’s but supporting them, and the students, through efforts like the Fellowship.
The 2023 application is now open until Monday, February 20th.
Apply HERE today.
