LOS ANGELES, CA, June 3, 2019 – The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) will host its 4-day Broadcaster U. Program at the University of Southern California (USC) beginning today and running through Thursday, June 6th. The NBPA’s broadcasting program has helped over 65 former and current NBA players prepare for careers in broadcasting. Participants of the program will attend sessions at USC’s Annenberg School of Communications and Journalism and receive lessons from USC’s faculty on broadcasting basics and technique. Over the course of the program, participants will gain valuable, hands-on experience, learning what it takes to be on a studio show by practicing debates, interviews, stand-ups, one-minute segments and game commentary.

“At the NBPA, we strive to provide career development programs that fit our players’ needs and interests,” said Deborah Murman, the NBPA’s Director of Career Development. “Broadcaster U. is particularly important to us because we have so many players who are drawn to broadcasting both during and after their playing careers. We are thrilled to be able to provide our members with the opportunity to explore this field, learn new techniques and develop their broadcasting presence. We look forward to the week ahead and to working with this great group of players and the faculty at USC.”

As part of the program, participants will get a tour of the ESPN studios in Los Angeles and dine at Shaquille’s Restaurant, the new restaurant of program alumnus Shaquille O’Neal. Participants will also hear from Casey Jacobsen (Fox Sports and Pac-12 Analyst), another alumnus of the program, to understand how his career as a player helped him transition into his current role. Other notable alumni of the program include Ryan Hollins, Richard Jefferson, Richard Hamilton, Dahntay Jones, Danny Granger, Steve Novak, Antonio Daniels and Brevin Knight.

“The NBPA’s broadcasting program was integral in helping me build my broadcasting resume,” said Casey Jacobsen. “I am excited to speak with the 2019 Broadcaster U. class so that I can share my experience in this industry and help the next generation of players succeed on a similar career path.”

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a video portfolio of their work from the week for use for future job opportunities.

All media inquiries should be directed to communications@nbpa.com.

ABOUT THE NBPA
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) is the union for current professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Established in 1954, the NBPA’s mission is to ensure that the rights of NBA players are protected and that every conceivable measure is taken to assist players in maximizing their opportunities and achieving their goals — on and off the court.

The NBPA advocates on behalf of the best interests of all NBA players, including the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the filing of grievances on behalf of the players, or counseling players on benefits, educational and post-NBA career opportunities.

In addition, the NBPA provides a forum for players to participate in union activities – including executive leadership roles, team representative positions and global community outreach initiatives. The NBPA offers each NBA player the opportunity to get involved in the democratic institution that was created for, continues to exist for and is run by them.

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