The NBPA’s Broadcaster U. Program returns to in-person programming, designed to help current and former players prepare for careers in broadcasting and media

LOS ANGELES, CA, June 6, 2022 - The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) announced today the start of its multi-day Broadcaster U. Program at the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism at the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, CA. The program, which is taking place in person for the first time since 2019, will begin today and run through June 8 with seven current and former players participating. Over the last 14 years, the NBPA’s Broadcaster U. Program has helped 81 current and former NBA players prepare for careers in broadcasting.

As part of the program, participants will attend interactive sessions at USC Annenberg and work with the school’s faculty members to learn the basic techniques of broadcasting. Participants will also gain practical experience on a mock studio show through simulated debates, interviews, one-minute segments, and game commentary among others.

Alumni of the NBPA Broadcaster U. Program include Shaquille O’Neal, Vince Carter, Ryan Hollins, Brevin Knight, Richard Jefferson, Richard Hamilton, Dahntay Jones, Danny Granger, Steve Novak, and Antonio Daniels.

“After two years of remote programming, it’s so exciting to be back in person at USC for our Broadcaster U. Program,” said Deborah Murman, the NBPA’s Director of Career Development. “We are seeing more players in the media space, as broadcasters, podcasters, analysts, and game commentators. This program is especially important to us to meet the needs of our players to ensure they are prepared for these types of careers in a market where the players’ voices are highly coveted. The engagement and dedication with Broadcaster U. is always amazing to watch and we look forward to what this week has to offer.”

“This NBPA program is a fantastic opportunity for players to get hands-on training and a simulated experience as a game-analyst,” said Gerry Matalon, long-time NBPA Broadcaster U. instructor, and talent communications coach. “Each participant will be more informed, educated, and experienced in the best practices required to be an excellent game-analyst for college and professional basketball. Should the players in the program decide to pursue the media industry as a vocation after their playing career, they will be better prepared to succeed and qualified for future opportunities."

“We are thrilled to welcome the NBPA back to USC Annenberg’s Wallis Annenberg Hall, where our world-class Media Center will serve as their training lab,” said Willow Bay, Dean of USC Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism.  “Our expert broadcast faculty will prepare the players to add value to the dynamic world of sports media by developing their skills as versatile analysts, strong communicators and thought leaders.”

At the end of the program, participants will also receive a video portfolio of their work at Broadcaster U. to use for future employment opportunities.

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

About the NBPA

The National Basketball Players Association is the union for current professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Established in 1954, the NBPA’s mission is to protect and support the rights and talents of our players, magnify the power of their collective will, and amplify their voices as leaders who will transcend sport and society globally.

The NBPA advocates on behalf of the best interests of all NBA players, including through the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the filing of grievances on behalf of the players, and counseling players on benefits, educational and post-NBA career opportunities. Business opportunities are generated by THINK450, the subsidiary of the NBPA charged with managing the players’ group licensing rights.

Dedicated to preserving the legacy of its members, the NBPA Foundation provides support and assistance to persons, communities, and organizations around the world that seek to improve the lives of those in need.

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