From Baskets to Boardrooms

A few weeks ago I got a call from the WNBPA asking me if I’d be interested in an externship with Fanatics and USC business school- a new program developed by Michael Rubin- designed to help pro athletes transition into life after sports. It sounded interesting but at the same time, it was definitely something in unfamiliar territory. That, along with the program being at USC (Go Bruins lol), I was hesitant to go. But then I had to remind myself, one of my main goals during this offseason is to focus on interests outside of basketball. This was the perfect opportunity, so I deicded to take a step outside of my comfort zone and go. By doing so, I can say in my 33 years of life, participating in the Fanatics Athlete Immersion Program was one best things I have ever done in my life.

*Day 1 of the program took place at the Fanatics Collectables Office. There was both WNBA and MLB players. It was really cool integrating with players from a different sport.*

*We spent our days at the Collectables office gaining knowledge on various Fanatics companies and taking courses on things such as network, leadership and personality testing .*

*This week was my first time being on the USC campus (besides the Galen Center). It was well worth my while. Special thanks to the USC staff and faculty who worked with us!*

*Staying in a tucked away part in Beverly Hills, the living accommodations were a small reflection of excellence the Fanatics brand represents*

I can go on and on about all that I gained in one week of this program, but I’d say my biggest take aways were getting exposure to so many different career fields and advice from top executives. When at the closing dinner, Michael Rubin asked us to express our favorite part of the program. I communicated that I could not choose just one thing because the entire program has been something I have been looking for since I can remember. I have never been given the opportunity to gain in depth direction and/or structure to my goals outside of basketball ever. This program provided that.

*One day we got to visit the Mitchell & Ness offices where we toured, met and talked with the CEO, and individually designed a unique clothing item that will get produced and sent to us.* Here I am pictured with Donnie, the Mitchell & Ness designer I was paired with.

After creating our unique clothing piece, we then had to do a presentation explaining why and what we created.

At the closing dinner speaking about how much go an impact the program had on me

A few of us chopping it up with Mr. Michael Rubin

*Izzy, Marie and me at the closing dinner. Michael welcomed us into his home, which was stunning. The views were also immaculate.*

*All of us (athletes)* that participated in the program

Enjoying conversation at dinner. Pictured her is me with Mike (Fanatic’s Collectables CEO) and AJ (an athlete in the program.

It was an amazing feeling that someone was interested in investing in something other than my skills on the court. The program, in just one week has propelled and encouraged me in so many ways, that I am now extremely excited about what’s in the future when life after basketball does come.

Athletes posses invaluable skills that cannot be taught, and with programs such as this one, we can learn to channel those special skills into businesses and boardrooms. I hope that the Fanatics Athlete Immersion program is just the first of many programs for athletes like this to come. Thank you Michael Rubin and the Fanatics team.