After a celebrated career spanning three decades, Sue Bird left her mark on the WNBA, women’s basketball, and the broader world of women’s sports.

Bird retired in 2022 after a historic run as the world’s premier point guard, during which she won five Olympic gold medals, four World Championship medals, two NCAA championships, and four WNBA titles. She is also a five-time EuroLeague champion, a thirteen-time WNBA All-Star, the 2021 USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year, the WNBA’s all-time leader in assists, and was voted by fans as one of the WNBA’s Top 15 Players of All Time.

In 2024, Sue’s jersey was retired by the Seattle Storm (making her only the second player in franchise history to receive that honor) and she officially joined the team’s ownership group. Bird will be inducted into both the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame this year and it was recently announced that she will serve as the first-ever Managing Director of USA Basketball for the upcoming Olympic cycle.

In 2021, Bird co-founded TOGETHXR—a women-centered media and commerce company—alongside Alex Morgan, Simone Manuel, and Chloe Kim, to further the progress, culture, representation, and coverage of all women and girls in sport. Through TOGETHXR, Sue produced Power of the Dream, a documentary by director Dawn Porter on the WNBA’s fight for social justice, which had a significant impact on U.S. politics in 2020; Row of Life, a feature documentary following Angela Madsen—a former Marine, three-time Paralympian, and renowned ocean rower—on her attempt to solo row unsupported from Los Angeles to Hawaii; and the six-part podcast series Summer of Gold, which chronicled the American female athletes who dominated the 1996 Atlanta Games. It was recently announced that Summer of Gold will be adapted into a television limited series, with Bird serving as one of the executive producers.

Last year, Sue hosted Sue’s Places, a basketball-focused take on Peyton Manning’s signature ESPN+ original series, where she explored the history and traditions of college basketball. Over the past several years, she and best friend Diana Taurasi have co-hosted the popular ‘alterna-cast’ The Bird & Taurasi Show during coverage of the Women’s Final Four and Sue Bird: In the Clutch, a documentary chronicling her groundbreaking career, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and is currently streaming on Netflix.

At the end of 2022, Sue and her fiancée, soccer legend Megan Rapinoe, launched A Touch More, a production company focused on elevating stories about revolutionaries who move culture forward. The company champions narratives centered on identity, activism, and underrepresented communities. Their first scripted TV series, Playing the Field—based on the bestselling novel Cleat Cute—is currently in development. The ensemble series is set in the world of women’s soccer and follows a young player navigating life as a rookie, her dream of making the national team, and a budding romance with the team captain.

Bird and Rapinoe re-launched their podcast, A Touch More: The Podcast, last year. Originally an Instagram Live series that began during the height of the pandemic, the show quickly gained a large following for its candid and wide-ranging conversations, which has continued since the re-launch of the show. Sue and Megan serve as executive producers of the podcast through their A Touch More banner. The show was recently named one of Apple’s “Shows We Love” for 2024 and won the Webby Award for Best Sports Podcast this year. Bird just launched her first solo podcast, Bird’s Eye View, focused on the upcoming WNBA season.

Sue has quickly established herself as a trailblazer among former athletes transitioning into mainstream media. Her sharp perspective and vocal advocacy for racial, gender, and LGBTQIA+ equity have made her a cornerstone in athlete representation and allyship. She continues to be a visible and outspoken activist for Black lives, LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, health and wellness, and expanding opportunities for girls and marginalized communities.

Bird currently resides in both New York and Seattle.

From Underdog to National Champion: The Meteoric Rise of Coach Todd Golden

In just three seasons, Todd Golden has transformed Florida Gators basketball—rekindling championship glory and rewriting the record books. At only 39 years old, Golden led Florida to an extraordinary 36–4 season and the 2025 National Championship, becoming the youngest head coach in over four decades to achieve college basketball’s ultimate prize.

Golden took the reins in 2022 after turning heads at the University of San Francisco, where he ended a decades-long drought by earning the Dons their first NCAA Tournament bid since 1998. His innovative coaching style and winning mentality quickly followed him to Gainesville.

In his first season at UF, he did what no Florida coach had done before—earning a postseason berth and multiple top-25 wins right out of the gate, including a landmark upset over #2 Tennessee. That momentum only built as Golden guided the Gators back to the NCAA Tournament in 2024, tallying 24 wins—their highest since 2017—and a run to the SEC Championship game.

Now, just a few short years into his Florida tenure, Todd Golden has delivered not just a new era, but a golden one, making him one of the most exciting and respected young leaders in college sports today

From UCSB Gaucho to UCLA Head Coach – A Journey of Passion and Leadership

Cori Close ’93 has woven basketball into every part of her life, from her days as a student-athlete at UC Santa Barbara to her current role as head coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball. Close was named The Michael Price Family UCLA Women’s Head Basketball Coach on April 21, 2011, and is the winningest coach in UCLA Women’s Basketball history with 305 wins, after surpassing Billie Moore’s record of 296 wins. She was named the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year and AP Coach of the Year after leading UCLA to their first-ever Final Four appearance and Big 10 championship in the 2024-2025 season, their first conference tournament title since 2016. Her dedication on the court set the stage for a 30-year coaching career that has shaped the lives of countless athletes. With years of coaching experience, Close offers insights on building high-performing teams, fostering resilience, and developing a winning mindset. 

As a Gaucho, she embraced the work-hard, play-hard mentality, balancing academics, athletics, and beachside moments. Close’s journey began immediately after graduation when she joined UCLA as an assistant coach (1993-1995). She then returned to UCSB for nine seasons, helping build a competitive program before spending seven years at Florida State. In 2011, she returned to UCLA as head coach, where she led the Bruins to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances while prioritizing player development and mentorship. While winning championships and coaching NCAA Tournament games has been rewarding, Close finds the most fulfillment in mentoring young women, watching them grow, graduate, and face life’s challenges beyond basketball. Close's talks emphasize personal and professional growth, sharing strategies on how to push past limits, embrace challenges, and develop self-discipline. 

A Championship Coach, Trailblazer, and Program Builder

A veteran of 19 NCAA Tournaments and a former Houston Rockets coach, Kelvin Sampson has cemented himself as one of the most accomplished and respected figures in college basketball. Since taking over as head coach of the University of Houston Men’s Basketball program in 2014, Sampson has transformed the Cougars into a national powerhouse, leading them to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, a 2021 Final Four berth, and multiple conference championships. His coaching career is defined by his ability to rebuild programs, develop NBA-caliber talent, and instill a winning culture.

Sampson is a proud member of the Lumbee Native American Tribe, making history as one of the most successful Native American coaches in the sport. His roots in Pembroke, North Carolina, a community deeply tied to Lumbee traditions, have shaped his relentless work ethic, leadership style, and deep commitment to mentorship. His journey from a small-town upbringing to leading some of the nation's top programs is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and coaches from underrepresented backgrounds. A trailblazer in basketball, Sampson has shattered barriers for Native Americans in the coaching ranks, demonstrating that success comes from perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering belief in one's abilities. His achievements have made him an influential role model, particularly for Indigenous youth who see him as proof that they, too, can reach the highest levels of competition.

With over 35 years of coaching experience and a career record of 764-349, Sampson is one of only 15 coaches in NCAA history to lead four different programs to the NCAA Tournament and one of just 16 to take multiple schools to the Final Four. He has been named National Coach of the Year 12 times and has earned eight conference Coach of the Year awards across five leagues. Before Houston, Sampson led Oklahoma to the 2002 Final Four, coached Indiana to back-to-back 20-win seasons, and spent six seasons in the NBA as an assistant with the Houston Rockets and Milwaukee Bucks. His ability to adapt, evolve, and build winning teams at every level speaks to his coaching brilliance.

Beyond the wins, Sampson is a leader who invests in his players' futures, ensuring they succeed both on and off the court. His teams have excelled academically, with numerous players earning degrees, and many of his former athletes have gone on to have successful careers in the NBA and beyond. His impact extends into the community, where he leads service initiatives such as providing meals for local families, supporting Special Olympics events, and mentoring young athletes. His leadership philosophy emphasizes character, discipline, and giving back, making him more than just a coach—he is a mentor, role model, and difference-maker in the lives of his players and those around him.

Sampson’s career is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of strong leadership. From his Native American roots to his success on the national stage, he has consistently elevated every program he has touched while inspiring the next generation of coaches and players. With his continued success at Houston, Sampson remains one of the most influential and respected minds in college basketball today.

Tracy McGrady, affectionately known as "T-Mac," is a legendary former NBA superstar and a Hall of Famer who made an indelible mark on the league. A seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time scoring champion, McGrady was known for his versatility and scoring prowess. Drafted 9th overall in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors, over his profound career, McGrady also played for the Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, and Atlanta Hawks. McGrady is a captivating speaker who brings the same passion and determination to the stage as he did the court.

McGrady’s lifelong dedication to the NBA is a testament to his commitment to community. His influence extends beyond the court, with a significant social media following, philanthropic connections, and widespread appeal in the sports community. Since retiring, McGrady has remained active in the basketball world by founding the Ones Basketball League (OBL), a competitive platform that celebrates the best one-on-one players. Whether discussing his NBA career, sports culture, or his focus on youth mentorship, McGrady’s story inspires audiences to pursue excellence, embrace leadership, and find purpose beyond their circumstances.

Former NBA player turned philanthropist Alonzo Mourning focuses his energy on empowering others through advocacy, education, and enrichment. Mourning founded the Mourning Family Foundation, which has raised more than $25M for various programs that aid in the development of children and their families. He further contributes to family wellness as a member of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He continues his involvement with basketball as Vice President of Player Programs and Development with the Miami Heat and Chair of the McDonald’s All-American Game Advisory Committee. A seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Mourning has been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Shortly after winning an Olympic gold medal, Mourning was diagnosed with Focal Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a rare genetic kidney disease and underwent a successful kidney transplant. In addition to his philanthropy, Mourning is a highly respected business leader and has numerous business development projects in the Miami area. A leader in all his pursuits, Mourning’s inspiring story encourages audiences to dream big.

Consistently recognized for his charitable efforts, Mourning has received numerous awards, including the NBA’s Community Assist Award, National Urban League’s Outstanding Community Service Award, Silver Medallion Community Service Award by the National Conference for Community and Justice, and NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Sportsmanship Award, The Children’s Trust Excellence Award for Public Policy, and more. Mourning has been sought after as an orator to inspire audiences ranging from sales teams to nephrologists.

Former professional basketball player Rex Chapman’s compelling journey from the court to the screen has made him a beacon of positivity and humor. Chapman was a standout basketball player at the University of Kentucky. He played twelve seasons in the NBA and served in the front offices of several NBA teams. With an illustrious basketball career spanning over a decade, Chapman transitioned seamlessly into his new role as a leading voice in the media, where he has amassed millions of followers.

Chapman has worked as a broadcaster for both professional and college basketball. He has hosted the CNN+ show Rex Chapman as well as the iHeart podcast Charges with Rex Chapman. He currently hosts the Smartless podcast Owned. His memoir, It’s Hard for Me to Live With Me, tells the story of his addiction and recovery in unflinching detail. Chapman’s speeches are a dynamic mix of personal anecdotes, motivational insights, and thoughtful reflections on overcoming adversity, making him an ideal speaker for audiences seeking inspiration and empowerment.

Basketball icon Scottie Pippen is one of basketball’s most talented, versatile, and successful players. An incredible come-up story, Pippen walked onto the team at an NAIA school after a slew of Division 1 rejections and was drafted fifth overall in the 1987 NBA Draft. Quickly establishing himself as leading talent, he played a critical role in elevating the Chicago Bulls into a championship team, effectively reigniting worldwide passion for the NBA during the ‘90s. Over 17 seasons in the NBA, Pippen won 6 NBA championships, 2 Olympic gold medals, and was named one of the NBA’s “50 Greatest Players of All Time.” He is also a two-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. After retiring, Pippen released his instant New York Times bestseller, his memoir, Unguarded. Beloved both by his community and basketball fans across the world, Pippen is a leading figure providing motivation, promoting sportsmanship, and sharing the story of his unlikely success.

Scottie Pippen is regarded as one of the best players in the NBA not only for his skill on the court, but also for helping build one of the first and most dominant basketball dynasties in the last half century. Pippen’s perspectives on teamwork, grit, and resilience have been sought by hosts including IMG Academy, Strategic Education, Johnson & Johnson, and more.

University of Memphis Men’s Basketball Assistant Coach Nolan Smith is known as “The People’s Champ.” After leading the Duke University Blue Devils to a national championship, he played in the NBA before returning home to Duke University to serve as an Assistant Coach for Duke University Men’s Basketball. Smith was one of 11 from Division I basketball named to the Teamworks Basketball Leadership Committee. The committee, comprised of the most forward-thinking Teamworks’ partners from around the country, will converge to help shape the future of athlete engagement and drive the development of best practices throughout the athletics industry. Smith’s compelling storytelling, combined with his passion for mentorship and community engagement, makes him an engaging and motivating speaker, capable of inspiring audiences across various fields.

Smith is the North Carolina state ambassador for Teen Cancer America, an organization designed to help bridge the gap between pediatric and adult oncology care, serving alongside celebrities such as The Band Perry, Eddie Vedder, and Joan Jett. He has also been named a George H.W. Bush Points of Light Inspiration honoree. Smith’s extensive community contributions, including his work with youth programs and charitable initiatives, enrich his speeches with firsthand experiences of leadership, empathy, and social impact, making him a compelling and relatable speaker.

Lindsay Gottlieb is a groundbreaking figure in the world of basketball, whose leadership and expertise have left an indelible mark on both college and professional sports. Currently the head coach of the USC Lady Trojans, Gottlieb is dedicated to honoring the storied legacy of the program with her deep knowledge of the game, unwavering passion, and authentic approach to leadership.

Her journey has been defined by excellence, including seven NCAA tournament appearances and a Final Four run with the Cal Bears women's team. As the first NCAA women’s head coach to join an NBA staff, when she was hired by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2019, Gottlieb continues to break barriers and redefine what is possible for women in sports. In 2025, Gottlieb was both the Big 10 Conference Champion and Big 10 Coach of the Year. Her remarkable career speaks not only to her success but also to her role as a trailblazer, making her a compelling and inspiring speaker who can share powerful insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of authenticity in achieving success.

Two-time Olympian and Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer Becky Hammon made history when she became the first woman to coach full-time in the NBA for the San Antonio Spurs. Hammon had a successful career as a player, including two Olympic appearances, an Olympic medal, a six-time WNBA All-Star, and being named one of the leagues “Top 15 Players of All-Time.” No stranger to breaking barriers in the sports world, Hammon joined the Spurs in 2014 in a leadership role as assistant coach. When Head Coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in the second quarter of a Spurs game, she made history again as the first woman head coach to lead an NBA team in a regular season game. Hammon is now the Head Coach of the WNBA Las Vegas Aces, back to back WMBA Champions. She is the first rookie WNBA coach to be named "WNBA Coach of the Year." She is joining ESPN as an Analyst, and will contribute to the network’s signature NBA shows, including Get Up, First Take, SportsCenter and NBA Today. Hammon offers her unique perspective as the first female coach in a men’s league, offering takeaways for those looking to become game-changers at work and in life.

Hammon has been inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, and named to the Sports Illustrated “Unrelenting List,” the most powerful, influential, and outstanding women in sports right now. She is included on The W25, a list of the 25 most influential players in WNBA history. In impactful keynote speeches and moderated conversations, Hammon shares her journey to the NBA, revealing vital leadership lessons and inspiring audiences to pursue their dreams relentlessly and stand up for what they believe in.

Professional basketball player Grant Williams is a leader on and off the court, as two-time back-to-back SEC Player of the Year and First Vice President of the National Basketball Players Association. He is recognized by fans of his college team as one of the best players in their history and has been called “a true student of life and basketball” by the Boston Globe. Known for his passion for strategic thinking, Williams is a dedicated academic mentor. He graduated in just three years from the University of Tennessee with a degree in supply chain management from the University of Tennessee, one of the top public programs in the country for supply chain management. The league’s Senior VP of Player Development, Jamila Wideman, called him "an incredible storyteller" with a good sense of humor and a willingness to be vulnerable. Williams brings humor and insight to high-powered events, touching on leadership, teamwork, gender equality, mental health awareness, and more.

Dubbed a “high-energy Renaissance man” in a glowing Forbes profile, he’s received accolades for his commitment to giving back to the community, a passion which is central to his purpose. Williams has leveraged his platform as an NBA rookie to make a major impact in the lives of young people, creating a group mentoring program. For his work empowering young people, he received the Bill Russell Mentoring Award. Williams is a former Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics player and current Power Forward for the Charlotte Hornets. Williams invigorates audiences with his sharp wit, compelling personal story, and his belief that your dreams should be central to your everyday life for maximum success.

Revered cultural icon Shaquille O’Neal is referred to in the celebrity tradition of a one-word moniker: Shaq. Over his fruitful NBA career spanning nearly two decades, Shaq was named to the NBA’s list of 50 greatest players of all time and inducted into NBA Hall of Fame. The four-time NBA Champion, 15-time NBA All Star, and three-time NBA Finals MVP has been named one of the most influential athletes by Forbes as well as the highest-ranked NBA athlete on Nielsen’s “State of the Media: Year in Sports” and Business Week’s “Power Sports 100.” Shaq electrifies every room with his larger-than-life personality, consistently receiving standing ovations for his motivational keynote speeches.

Off the court, Shaq has established himself as a powerful media personality and businessman. Ranked among ‘‘The 100 Most Creative People in Business’’ by Fast Company magazine, Shaq currently manages a diverse business portfolio and serves as an analyst on TNT’s Emmy-award winning show, Inside the NBA. In addition to being an early investor in companies such as Google, Shaq has managed an internationally beloved personal brand, which has included television shows, a shoe line and social media/tech products. Shaq has been invited to speak to hosts from all industries, including Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation, Deutsche Bank AG, World Leaders Group, and more.

Legendary Head Coach Geno Auriemma has redefined the meaning of success in his 40 years at the University of Connecticut. During his illustrious tenure, Auriemma transformed the women’s basketball program into the gold standard – both on and off the court. Under his guidance, the Huskies went from one winning season to 12 national titles, 22 Final Fours, have had six perfect seasons, and won 55 Conference titles. He also served as the head coach of the U.S. National Team, which won gold at the 2012 Olympic Games in London and the 2016 Games in Rio. In his empowering remarks he shares lessons from on and off the court on teamwork, perseverance, finding motivation, and overcoming obstacles that resonate with any organization.

An inductee to both the Basketball Hall of Fame and Women Basketball Hall of Fame, and a recipient of numerous awards including more than 30 National Coach of the Year honors, Auriemma has set the bar not only in coaching – but also in team building, motivation, and a tested brand of everyday leadership that creates winning organizations. He shares his insights in a highly-rated MasterClass on 'Leading Winning Teams' as well as in sought-after speaking engagements, delivering motivational insights on building sustainable success.