Wednesday, 15 May 2024

NBA X HBCU Fellowship Program Gives Students Hands-On Experience

The NBA has partnered with the NBA Foundation to launch the inaugural HBCU Fellowship Program, providing a unique opportunity for 60 graduate and undergraduate students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities. The program aims to give HBCU students greater access and opportunity while teaching them about the business side of basketball. These students were placed in paid internship roles with various NBA franchises and the league office, where they gained hands-on experience in departments like ticket sales, corporate partnerships, human relations, social responsibility, and marketing.

The application process for the program was highly competitive, with over 2,700 applicants vying for a spot. Only 60 students were selected, representing 24 different HBCUs across the country. The program kicked off with a two-day orientation session in New York City, which included a message from Commissioner Adam Silver, a panel discussion featuring NBA players, networking opportunities, and NBA swag. Following the orientation, the students embarked on a 10-week internship to learn as much as they could about the industry.

In interviews with NBA.com, four students – Cierra Carter, Afiya Ward, Jonathan Jackson, and Andre Spivey – shared their experiences and insights from the program. They described the various departments they worked in and the projects they were assigned, such as recruiting, creating presentations, tracking sponsor hits, and participating in social responsibility programs.

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One student, Jonathan Jackson, was even offered a full-time role at the end of his 10-week internship, highlighting the program’s potential for career opportunities. The fellows also had the chance to meet and interact with NBA players and professionals, providing them with valuable networking experiences.

When asked about the impact of the program, the students emphasized the importance of building relationships, being open to learning, and embracing discomfort to foster personal and professional growth. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the program and encouraged other HBCU students to apply for future cohorts.

The inaugural HBCU Fellowship Program has been a resounding success, thanks to the efforts and dedication of its participants. As the program looks ahead to the 2023 application process, it is clear that the inaugural class has set a high standard and paved the way for future HBCU students to follow.


FAQs

Q: What is the NBA X HBCU Fellowship Program?
A: The NBA X HBCU Fellowship Program is a partnership between the NBA and the NBA Foundation that provides paid internship opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities. The program aims to give HBCU students access and exposure to the business side of basketball.

Q: How many students were selected for the program?
A: 60 students from 24 different HBCUs were selected for the inaugural HBCU Fellowship Program.

Q: What departments did the students work in during their internships?
A: The students worked in various departments, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, human relations, social responsibility, and marketing.

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Q: Were there any notable experiences or achievements during the program?
A: One student, Jonathan Jackson, was offered a full-time role at the end of his 10-week internship. The students also had the opportunity to meet NBA players and professionals, expanding their network and fostering valuable relationships.


Summary

The NBA X HBCU Fellowship Program has provided 60 graduate and undergraduate students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities with an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the NBA. These students were placed in paid internships with NBA franchises and the league office, working in various departments and learning about the business side of basketball. The program has been highly competitive, with a rigorous selection process and over 2,700 applicants. The students have shared their experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of networking, learning, and embracing discomfort. The success of the inaugural class sets a high standard for future cohorts of the HBCU Fellowship Program. Stay tuned for details on the 2023 application process.