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How Eric Thomas has Become the Go-To Motivator for the NBA

Kim Anthony • May 5, 2023

Josh Okogie almost missed the text. It was 10 days after the NBA season was suspended, and the Minnesota Timberwolves wing was sleeping in. But he woke up to a message that the team had organized a conference call with world-renowned motivational speaker Eric Thomas -- also known as "ET The Hip-Hop Preacher."

"I wasn't even going to join it, but when I saw it was ET, I had to hear him. I joined the call, and he was talking about how the ball is still bouncing," Okogie said. "He was talking about how the season is suspended and the physical ball isn't still bouncing, but just because the ball stops bouncing on the court, it doesn't mean the ball stops bouncing in life.
"And all the coaches were like, 'Wow.' Even I was like, 'Wow.'"

Okogie had been pushing Timberwolves assistant general manager Joe Branch all season to get Thomas to speak to the team. He'd met Thomas last summer while working out at the Chris Paul Basketball Academy. Thomas, who has a close relationship with Paul, made an immediate impact on Okogie. His speaking schedule hadn't lined up with the Timberwolves' plans during the season, but the team was able to bring him in during the most uncertain time the NBA has ever faced.

Thomas spoke to Timberwolves players, coaches and staff for 28 minutes, sharing an uplifting message as he urged players to take a positive outlook.

"Let's write a list of what we have. Let's not focus on what we don't have," Thomas told ESPN he said to the team. "What we don't have, we're going to get that back, but what we have is what we need to focus on because if we don't focus on what we have then we'll be back to what we don't have.

"This game is already a game of inches and not just inches in terms of the game itself," he continued. "It's inches in terms of mental [health], so it's important to cling to what they have instead of what they don't have."

Mental health has become a priority issue for the NBA in recent years, particularly after DeMar DeRozan and Kevin Love came forward to discuss their mental health experiences. And while the league offers multiple official support systems for its players -- systems that NBA officials acknowledge might be needed more than ever with the league on hiatus -- Thomas has become the unofficial go-to source of support for players around the league. He's someone they know they can lean on when they're going through difficult times, whether through a personal connection or just through the inspirational messages he posts on social media.

"ET is just a ball of light," Cleveland Cavaliers center Andre Drummond told ESPN earlier this season. "His energy, his inspiration, the way he views life and the way he can inspire so many people just by his words is huge. Sometimes I listen to his stuff whenever I'm feeling off or I need a certain message. He has messages for all different types of things."

Thomas has shared his messages directly with NBA veterans such as Drummond, Paul and Kyrie Irving. He has connected with rookies, including Zion Williamson, as part of the NBA's annual rookie symposium. Players point to his rise from his humble beginnings and his raw, powerful delivery of his messages as sources of inspiration.

Now, with the NBA on hold and no return date in sight, Thomas finds those messages resonating like never before.

CHRIS PAUL WAS heading into his first postseason with the Houston Rockets. He'd teamed with MVP James Harden to lead the Rockets to the most successful regular season in team history and the top seed in the Western Conference.

And, while he hadn't heard from Thomas for months, he wasn't surprised to see his trusted adviser's name pop up on his phone. They initially connected when Thomas spoke to Paul while he was with the Clippers, then stayed in touch as the veteran point guard changed cities, with Paul even inviting him to speak at his North Carolina summer basketball camps.

"It's a lot of people that want to see your demise. A lot of people want you to hurt. A lot of people want to take your spot," Thomas told Paul through a voicemail. "So, you've got to understand that and let that fuel you to take your game to a whole different level."

Paul got the Rockets within a win of the NBA Finals before a hamstring injury knocked him out of the series against the Golden State Warriors, who went on to win the title. A year later, Thomas and Paul connected again, with the Houston Rockets point guard presenting the speaker with a customized pair of his Jordan CP3.XII signature sneakers featuring motivational quotes from Thomas such as, "Avoid being your own enemy" and "Most of you don't want success as much as you want to sleep."

Said Paul: "ET is always somebody I know that's going to kick it to me straight. He just makes you be more than you think you can. When I think of ET, I just think of pushing myself. Whenever you think that you have gone as far as you can, you can go a little further."

Thomas rose to the top of his profession despite being a homeless high school dropout. He was born in Chicago to a teenage mother but was raised primarily in Detroit. His biological father wasn't in his life until Thomas was 30.

Thomas spent 12 years working toward getting his bachelor's degree from Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama, in 2001, and went on to earn his master's and doctorate from Michigan State University.


He got his big break in 2008 after a speech at Michigan State, where he was working as an academic adviser. He challenged the students in the audience to "wanna succeed as bad as they wanna breathe." The speech was posted to YouTube, where it racked up more than 2 million views.

Thomas now averages 120-200 speeches per year and has worked with numerous professional sports teams including the LA Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets.

"I look at his Instagram every day," Hornets forward Miles Bridges said. "I watch his videos all the time before games because he's really inspiring and he motivates me, so I try to look at him all the time. I can come to the game unfocused and watch one of his videos and just lock in right away. That's how powerful he is with his speaking, so I don't think people give him enough credit for that."

Thomas posts inspirational messages every day on Instagram, where he has 1.5 million followers -- dozens of whom play in the NBA. He has more than 435,000 followers on Twitter. Among the notable sports figures who follow his social media accounts are NBA All-Stars Irving, Drummond, Isaiah Thomas, Damian Lillard, Draymond Green, Khris Middleton and Devin Booker.


"ET is just a ball of light. His energy, his inspiration, the way he views life and the way he can inspire so many people just by his words is huge."
 - Andre Drummond

Thomas is also using his social media platform to reach people more directly because of the current global state. After he noticed the spread of COVID-19, he posted his cellphone number in his social media bio, encouraging those in need of motivation to reach out. Timberwolves coach Ryan Saunders did so, and the two have since been in touch daily.

The league added Thomas to its lineup of speakers at the mandatory four-day, NBA Rookie Transition Program 2016. For many newcomers to the league, it's the first time they see him speak in person.

"His speeches are phenomenal," Williamson said. "The way he breaks down wanting to be great, he breaks it down in such a way that you've got to truly look yourself in the mirror and say, 'Do I want to be great or am I just saying I want to be great?' He fuels you to go above and beyond."

SNOW HADN'T YET fallen in Denver, but the days were sometimes gloomy for new Denver Nuggets addition Isaiah Thomas in September 2018.

The two-time All-Star was in an unfamiliar situation, on a one-year deal while rehabbing from hip surgery, when he discovered a new source of inspiration while scrolling through his Instagram feed.

Thomas found one of Eric Thomas' inspirational posts and sent him a direct message. It got an immediate response. Now the free-agent point guard considers the motivational speaker one of his best friends.

"I wish it was mandatory for every professional team to have to sit down and listen to him talk," said Isaiah Thomas, who is not related to the speaker. "I know if you heard him talk and the passion that he talks with, it's going to resonate with all walks of life. It doesn't matter, and that's the type of people I want to be around at all times."

Lately, the two have connected again frequently, with Isaiah Thomas facing the uncertain future of being a recently released free agent in a league currently on hiatus and in a player transaction moratorium. Eric Thomas has also reached out to Allen Crabbe, who was waived by the Timberwolves in late February. Both players assured the motivational speaker that they're in a strong mental space as they try to make their way back.


homas isn't the only option for players in similar situations. The NBA requires teams to provide players access to licensed, clinical mental health professionals at all times. Dr. William Parham, the National Basketball Players Association's director of mental and health wellness, and NBPA player wellness counselor Keyon Dooling have also launched virtual office hours, where players past and present can talk about how best to manage their mental well-being.

"There's a whole bunch that our guys grapple with, and I'm so thankful that we put this infrastructure in place because a lot of guys haven't processed their journeys," said Dooling, who played 13 seasons in the NBA. "They've been too busy achieving, and in quiet moments like this, I think it's a great opportunity."

A communication from the league office was sent to all teams during the week of the NBA suspension about the impact the COVID-19 pandemic might have on mental and emotional well-being. The memo included customized documents with tips, resources and information from mental health and wellness partners, providers and consultants, to help players, team staff and their families maintain mental wellness.

That's why the Timberwolves took on the initiative to collaborate with Thomas.

"We pride ourselves in being player-centric, and as we face this incredibly difficult time, we are looking for ways to thoroughly support our players," Timberwolves president Gersson Rosas told ESPN. "Eric Thomas has a powerful voice with a strong message, and we believe his perspective will encourage our players to stay connected and to motivate them to get through the current challenges we are all facing."

Having their routines taken from them while the league is on hiatus has presented a new and even more difficult challenge. Social distancing has created an environment where players -- used to being surrounded by teammates and fans -- no longer have that daily personal contact.


"A lot of people are isolated," Okogie said. "So definitely, that message pertains in terms of mental health. What can you do to take away from that feeling of being alone?"

One of Thomas' consistent messages is that even in times of isolation, players never have to feel as if they're alone.

"I feel like once we connect, I'm like a shepherd," Thomas said, "and it's my responsibility to not only give you lip service or give you a motivational presentation, it's my responsibility to kind of walk with you as much as you will allow me to walk with you."


ESPN's Malika Andrews contributed to this report.

8 Things to Consider if You're Thinking About Running for Office

By Kim Anthony • September 4, 2023
The prospect of running for public office is both exciting and daunting. It offers an opportunity to make impactful changes, but it also exposes you to scrutiny and requires tremendous commitment. If you're contemplating throwing your hat into the political ring, it's essential to think through multiple factors before making your decision. Here are eight critical considerations to mull over: 1. Personal Readiness Entering politics is a life-altering choice, not just for you but also for your family and close ones. The demands on your time, privacy, and emotional well-being can be overwhelming. Questions to Ask : Are you emotionally, mentally, and physically prepared for the challenges? Have you discussed this with your family, and are they supportive? 2. Core Beliefs and Values Politics is an arena of competing interests and ideologies. Having a clear understanding of your core beliefs and values will guide your political journey. Questions to Ask : What causes or issues are most important to you? Are your views aligned with the electorate you wish to serve? 3. Skill Set and Qualifications Being in public office requires a diverse skill set, including but not limited to leadership, public speaking, and policy analysis. Questions to Ask : Do you possess the skills needed to succeed in office? If not, are you willing to learn or surround yourself with experts who do? 4. Financial Considerations Campaigning can be expensive, and public office may not offer the financial rewards that other careers do. Questions to Ask : Do you have the financial resources to run a campaign and sustain yourself in office? Are you ready to disclose your financial status, as is often required? 5. Electability and Public Perception Popularity and public perception play a crucial role in politics. Your history, conduct, and even appearance are often subject to public scrutiny. Questions to Ask : How are you perceived by the community? Do you have any skeletons in the closet that could become public and harm your candidacy? 6. Team and Support System A successful campaign requires a dedicated team for various functions: strategizing, fundraising, public relations, and more. Questions to Ask : Do you have a trustworthy team or know how to assemble one? Do you have mentors or advisors in the political arena? 7. Regulatory and Legal Requirements Different positions have different eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and regulations. Questions to Ask : Are you familiar with the legal requirements for the position you are considering? Do you meet the eligibility criteria? 8. Long-Term Goals and Exit Strategy Public office is often not a lifetime appointment. Whether you serve one term or multiple, you will eventually move on. Questions to Ask : What are your long-term goals? Do you see politics as a career or a stepping stone to other endeavors? What's your exit strategy? The Starting Point, Not the Destination Contemplating these eight points is just the starting point; running for public office is a long, complicated journey that will demand constant adjustment and reevaluation. However, these considerations can give you a solid foundation for making an informed decision. Running for public office is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. If you are considering this path, taking the time to reflect on these eight considerations will provide valuable insights and prepare you for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.

What Chris Smalls, President of Amazon Labor Union, Has Taught Us About Leadership

By Kim Anthony • September 4, 2023
Chris Smalls has emerged as an unlikely hero, not just for the workers of Amazon but for the labor movement across America and beyond. He has become the President of the Amazon Labor Union, catalyzing significant shifts in a company known for its tough anti-union stance. His rise from a rank-and-file worker to a labor organizer has lessons in leadership that transcend industrial contexts and have universal applicability. 1. Embrace the Unexpected Chris’s journey began when he unexpectedly walked out of Amazon three years ago. His decision, driven by a deep-rooted sense of justice, has today turned him into a symbol of hope for many. Leaders often need to embrace the unexpected and leverage it for positive change. 2. Prioritize the Immediate Task Despite the allure of media attention and numerous emails, Chris has remained focused on getting a contract for JFK workers. Leaders should always keep their eyes on the immediate goal, ensuring it aligns with the broader mission. 3. Share the Reality Chris paints a vivid picture of the demanding work environment at Amazon. By sharing his personal experience, he humanizes the struggle and educates the masses on the realities many face. Great leaders tell stories that connect and mobilize. 4. Find Inspiration from Setbacks The failed unionization attempt in Bessemer, Alabama, became a source of inspiration for Chris. Leaders often encounter setbacks; the key is to learn from them and use them as fuel to keep going. 5. Build Solidarity Beyond Borders Chris's commitment isn't limited to America. He has connected with workers from London to Cuba, demonstrating the universality of the labor struggle. Leaders must think globally, fostering international collaborations and solidarity. 6. Stay Motivated While challenges abound, Chris is driven by the possibility of causing billionaires to rethink their decisions. He's inspired by stories of grassroots movements and international solidarity. Leaders must find their unique source of motivation to persist. 7. Learn Continuously From understanding the deep divides in organizational alignments to the intricacies of American labor politics, Chris's journey is one of continuous learning. Effective leaders are always students, open to gaining new insights and understanding. 8. Foster International Solidarity Chris's efforts have sparked interest from other organizations and countries. By fostering international collaboration, leaders can amplify their cause and create a more substantial impact. 9. Celebrate Victories but Look Ahead The Amazon Labor Union's election win was monumental, but Chris understands that it's the beginning. Leaders should celebrate victories but must always focus on the next milestone. 10. Hold Entities Accountable Whether it's Amazon or established unions, Chris stresses the importance of accountability. Leaders must consistently challenge existing systems, pushing them towards greater fairness and justice. In conclusion, Chris Smalls's leadership journey is an inspiration to many. His commitment, resilience, and vision offer lessons not just for labor organizers but for leaders across sectors. As the labor landscape continues to evolve, it's voices like Chris's that will guide the way, urging us all to build a more equitable and just world.

7 Lessons We Learned from Daymond John About Entrepreneurship

By Kim Anthony • September 3, 2023
Entrepreneurship is a journey paved with challenges, risks, and opportunities. In the world of business, there are few voices as authoritative and inspiring as Daymond John's. As a successful entrepreneur, investor, and star of the hit TV show "Shark Tank," Daymond John has shared his wisdom and insights that have become valuable lessons for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Here are eight lessons we've learned from Daymond John about entrepreneurship: 1. Start Small, Think Big Daymond's journey began with a modest investment of $40, sewing homemade hats in his mother's living room. This humble start taught him the importance of taking the first step, even when resources are limited. He emphasizes the need to think big but start small, leveraging what you have to make gradual progress toward your goals. 2. Solve Real Problems One of Daymond's key principles is to identify problems that need solving. Successful businesses often emerge from addressing genuine pain points faced by consumers. By focusing on solutions that add value to people's lives, entrepreneurs can tap into sustainable demand and build a loyal customer base. 3. The Power of Branding Daymond is a firm believer in the power of branding. He turned FUBU (For Us, By Us) into a global fashion brand by connecting with the hip-hop community and championing inclusivity. His lesson? Build a brand that tells a story and resonates with your target audience. A strong brand creates emotional connections and sets you apart in a competitive market. 4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity Failure is often seen as a setback, but Daymond sees it as a stepping stone to success. He acknowledges his past failures and emphasizes that learning from mistakes is crucial for growth. Every failure provides valuable lessons that can guide future decisions and strategies. 5. Stay Hungry and Persistent Daymond's journey to success was far from smooth, marked by rejections and obstacles. His story teaches us the importance of perseverance and hunger. Entrepreneurship requires a relentless drive to overcome challenges, adapt to change, and keep pushing forward, even when the odds seem stacked against you. 6. Know Your Numbers Inside and Out Numbers are the language of business, and Daymond stresses the significance of understanding your financials. Whether it's profit margins, costs, or revenue projections, a deep understanding of your financial metrics empowers you to make informed decisions and negotiate effectively. 7. Build Relationships and Networks In the business world, relationships matter. Daymond's success was shaped by his ability to build strong connections with mentors, partners, and customers. He advises entrepreneurs to network, seek mentorship, and nurture relationships as they can provide valuable guidance, opportunities, and support. Daymond John's journey from a small start to a globally recognized entrepreneur is a testament to his expertise and insights into the world of business. These eight lessons serve as a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through the challenges and triumphs of building and growing a successful enterprise. By embracing these principles, entrepreneurs can navigate their own paths to success with confidence and determination.
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