Fifteen proposals to strengthen membership services, recruitment, and member engagement — submitted by WNBA pioneer and Indiana Basketball Hall of Famer Leslie Johnson.
Offer free entry-level membership for the first year after a player's career ends — the critical window when they are still household names, most open to connection, and most at risk for mental health decline. Prioritize WNBA players (average career 2 years or less) and NBA players who may need more convincing while still benefiting from playing-career income.
Create a “New Beginners NBRPA Membership Class” — a one-day web-based course guiding new members through NBRPA services and training them how to utilize available resources.
Produce a single-sheet diagram or graphic that clearly maps which programs and benefits each member type (NBA, WNBA, Harlem Globetrotters, ABA) can access — eliminating confusion about divided offerings.
Introduce monthly or quarterly installment payment options for dues. At $250/year, monthly payments of ~$20 reduce friction and increase membership retention — especially for members not receiving automatic deductions.
Offer yearly web-based refresher courses reminding members of available programs and benefits, while also highlighting association accomplishments throughout the year.
Create a referral rewards program: for every new member who signs a full-year or longer membership, the referring member receives a $25–$50 gift card. Generates member-driven recruitment and an additional member revenue stream.
Host an annual one-day tour or shadowing experience at NBRPA headquarters in Chicago. Understanding how the organization operates motivates members to contribute more actively.
Establish an opt-in volunteer list of members who are available to contribute to youth programs, NBRPA Cares, Full Court Press programs, and other initiatives — matching willing members with needs as they arise.
Create an NBRPA portal where members upload videos showcasing their post-career talents, businesses, and accomplishments. Promotes member value to potential sponsors and keeps the membership visible and celebrated.
Convene a focus group of financially savvy NBRPA members to identify opportunities for legends to participate in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) agreements with colleges and universities they once attended.
A program where member volunteers are compensated for coaching, individual training, and sports camps booked through the NBRPA. Revenue split: 70% to the player, 30% to the NBRPA. Marketed via social media linking to the NBRPA website.
A “Hire a Legend” portal where schools use grant funding to book legends for virtual classroom sessions. Revenue split: 50% to the member, 50% to the NBRPA. Open to any school or organization willing to pay per hour of engagement.
Partner with national real estate firms to provide members with investment education and opportunities. Companies gain access to NBRPA members; members gain real estate knowledge and deal flow.
Partner with a national credit-building organization to help members rebuild credit following financial setbacks — divorce, child support, property loss — and position themselves for future financial success.
A separate social media campaign where fans pay to schedule a 30-minute Zoom conversation with a legend of their choice. Revenue split: 60% to the member, 40% to the NBRPA. Members submit a short biography and set their calendar availability.
Submitted by Leslie Johnson, Committee Member — WNBA pioneer, Indiana Basketball Hall of Famer, and international professional player.