Staff Intros
Laura Thomas
Passion for the Work:
I grew up playing basketball and it was a huge part of my identity through high school. When I realized that I didn’t have the drive nor the talent to play at my dream college, I began to search for other ways I could still be involved in the game. During my time as a student at Notre Dame, it became clear to me just how hard it was for student-athletes to invest as much time into their personal and professional development as they did into their sport. This contradiction didn’t sit well with me and I began to develop a passion for investing in athletes as individuals and people, not just as players of a sport.
What I Do in PD:
I focus largely on developing career and professional exploration programs (Now4Next) forNBA players as well as the overall player development efforts at the NBA G League level and the newly launched Pro Path.
Fun Facts:
When I’m not working, I love running and doing things outdoors. Most recently I completed my third marathon (NYC inNovember) and last year I also walked across the Grand Canyon in a day –26 miles in 13 hours!
.png)
