Shawn Sam
About Shawn Sam
Shawn Sam is the Senior Manager of Basketball Strategy at the NBA, with a background in corporate development, venture capital, and strategy consulting.
Title and Role at NBA
Shawn Sam holds the title of Senior Manager, Basketball Strategy at the National Basketball Association (NBA). Based in New York, United States, he has been with the organization since 2023. In this role, Shawn contributes significantly to the basketball strategy and R&D platforms, including NBA Launchpad and the NBA Basketball Tech Expo.
Career History
Before his current role, Shawn served as Manager, Basketball Strategy at the NBA from 2022 to 2023. He was also Associate to the CEO at Spurs Sports & Entertainment from 2021 to 2022 in San Antonio, Texas. Earlier, he was Manager, Portfolio Development at Foot Locker, Inc. in 2020 in Greater New York City Area. His diverse career includes roles at Brand Capital International as a Venture Capital Investor, IBM as a Strategy Consultant, and various internships at Piper Jaffray, StepStone Group, and Mercer.
Educational Background
Shawn Sam has a robust educational background. He achieved a Master of Science (MS) degree in Sports Management from Columbia University. He completed his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree with a major in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies and a minor in Philosophy from Baruch College. Both degrees were conferred in 1970.
Professional Roles at NBA
Within the NBA, Shawn co-leads the basketball research and development (R&D) platforms, including initiatives such as NBA Launchpad and the NBA Basketball Tech Expo. He plays a crucial role in supporting the NBA's basketball tech initiatives, contributing to the development and implementation of innovative basketball technologies.
Mentoring and Community Involvement
Shawn Sam is passionate about mentoring first-generation students and young professionals from underrepresented communities. His commitment to mentorship and community support extends beyond his professional responsibilities, reflecting his dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in the sports industry.