[NATIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYERS ASSOCIATION] Counsel

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 protect and advance the rights of our players. They are the game.

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 and educational and post-NBA career opportunities.

Business opportunities are generated by THINK450, the group licensing and partnership engine of the NBPA. With more than 80 active partnerships, THINK450 is dedicated to uncovering shared interests between players and leading brands to build more engaging collaborations.

The NBPA Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of its members by supporting and assisting people, communities, and organizations worldwide. It spotlights and amplifies the global initiatives of professional basketball players, driving positive change through community building, charitable endeavors, and social entrepreneurship.

POSITION

Counsel at the NBPA are responsible for protecting, representing, and maximizing the rights, interests, and well-being of the union and its members. Priorities include negotiating and drafting agreements, supporting various arms of the union, researching legal issues, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, formalizing policies, assisting with the administration of the NBPA Regulations Governing Player Agents, and participating in grievances on player contract and disciplinary matters. As Counsel, you will provide legal support to the General Counsel and other staff attorneys and employees on a variety of matters.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements

  • Participate in grievances on player contract and discipline mattersAssist on matters involving the NBPA Regulations Governing Player Agents

  • Negotiate and draft agreements in various business contexts, working with staff to help achieve their objectives

  • Support various arms of the union, including finance, security, player engagement, player operations, health and sports science, and others

  • Research various legal and other issues, and provide support on various matters related to the operation of the NBPA and administration of the salary cap and free agency system

  • Provide support to the NBPA Foundation

REQUIREMENTS

  • Undergraduate degree and Juris Doctor from a top-tier law school

  • Minimum of 4 years of experience at a top law firm or similar in-house experience

  • Must be a member of the New York Bar Association (or granted permission to practice)

  • Demonstrated ability to develop practical, business-minded solutions that support business strategy and key initiatives

  • Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time and in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment

  • Experience in litigation, labor law, and relevant experience with a union or in the sports or entertainment industry is preferred

Role is based in New York.

Salary range: $200k-$225k

Jaia Thomas