NetWorks Sports Rising Stars – Shalynn Leonard (@Ballihoo_Sports)

NetWorks is committed to supporting young professionals looking to get their foot in the door in the sports industry.  Our team has received an extraordinary amount of support throughout our careers and are truly impressed with the generation of young leaders who are ready to help take the sports industry to all new heights.  If you know of any individuals like this, please let us know about them.  If you are in a position to hire or recommend these NetWorks Rising Stars, please contact us and we will put you in touch with them.  They are our future!

Today’s NetWorks Sports Rising Star is Shalynn Leonard

Shalynn Leonard

“Shalynn is a very talented individual with tremendous experience in marketing and player relations with the NBA.  She is someone who is willing to go the extra mile to make sure that all aspects of a project have been taken care of and is interested in continuing to learn & develop her leadership skills.  She is passionate about the sports industry and will be a tremendous asset to any organization.
–Angela Taylor, President & CEO – NetWorks Sports Consulting


Name: Shalynn Leonard

College(s): Norfolk State University (Undergraduate) and Los Angeles Fashion Institute of Design and Manufacturing

Degree(s): Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.  A.A. Apparel Manufacturing Managment


Resume Available: Yes, upon request (send email request)

Tell us a little about your background.
I was born and raised in the rainy city of Seattle, WA. I’m a HBCU graduate who had the opportunity to play basketball at the D1 level.

What type of work experience have you had?
My work experience consists of many different fields outside the sports industry. Upon graduation, I had the opportunity to be in the Hertz Management Training Program, after 6 months was then promoted to an Insurance Liaison. I have many years in Sales at both Nike and the NBA specialty stores. As well as experience as an Administrative Assistant at Highline Community College.

What type of job(s) are you seeking?
I’m looking to capitalize on my sports marketing experience in a position where I have an opportunity for growth while adding value to the organization.

What is your greatest strength?
My greatest strength would be my strong interpersonal skills. I have an extraordinary ability to interact professionally and build a rapport with exclusive and global clientele.

Tell us about a project that you completed successfully.
My most recent project that I’ve completed successfully would be the 2011 NBA All-Star weekend in Los Angeles, CA. I worked as a Marketing Associate for the Community & Player Program department. I supported the staff in planning player appearances leading up to and during the All Star weekend.

What experience (if any) do you have in the sports industry?

My experience in the sports industry consists of working for the NBA in the Community & Player Program Department. I supported the staff with marketing duties for up coming projects. I assisted in facilitating player appearances for current and former NBA players, worked with internal and external marketing partners and sponsors, as well as contract preparation and negotiation. I also coached girls basketball with my alma mater Rainier Beach High School and Highline Community College.

Why do you want to work in the sports industry?
Working in the sports industry has always been my endeavor. Not only is sports my passion, but having the experience as a student athlete gave me the work ethic and confidence to thrive in this industry.

Who has had the biggest influence on your life?
My biggest influence is God and my family. They believe in me and continue to push me to my purpose. My mother always told me to “Go after my passion and the money will follow,” that statement has always stuck with me to this day.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself as one of the leading women executives within a sports management organization. I will be a mover and a shaker who continues to strive for excellence.

Anything else we should know about you?

I will be pursuing an MBA in Sports Business in the Spring of 2012. In the Summer of 2012, I’ll be coordinating my first annual girls basketball camp in various cities. I also had the chance to attend high school with the NBA likes of Jamal Crawford, Nate Robinson, and Terrence Williams.


For more information about Shalynn or to request a resume, please send an email to info@networkssports.com

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