Recognized as The League of Opportunity, the United States Basketball League (USBL) is as much involved with human resource development as it is with professional sports. The USBL has provided an opportunity for players to improve and showcase their skills for the National Basketball Association, Continental Basketball Association and International clubs around the world. Through its first sixteen seasons of operation, the USBL has been the springboard for numerous professional playing careers. One hundred and fifty (150) former USBL players have reached the NBA ranks while 78 players have been selected in the NBA Draft.
The USBL season runs from Late-April (to allow players who have concluded their collegiate careers and either have been drafted by the USBL or want to attend mini-camp) until late June (before the start of NBA rookie and free agent camps). For draft-hopeful collegians, the USBL is the premiere summer league, which offers a sound transition from the college to the professional game. The USBL’s playing rules are identical to the NBA’s rules, with the added stipulation that each team carries at least two rookies on its ten-player roster. This provides a maximum opportunity for players looking to showcase their skills as well as stay in prime physical and mental condition prior to the NBA Draft.
The list of premiere rookies from the USBL who have made their mark in the NBA includes the USBL Class of 1985: 7-7 center Manute Bol (NBA blocked shots leader as a rookie in 1985-86), 5-7 guard Spud Webb (1986 NBA Slam-Dunk Champion), forward John “Hot Rod” Williams (NBA All-Rookie selection in 1986-87) and guard Michael Adams (1992 NBA All-Star). Other highly successful USBL rookies are Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues and Charlie Ward.
The USBL also provides a showcase opportunity for veterans of European and Continental Basketball Association teams to gain further exposure and earn NBA roster spots. In addition, the USBL traditionally places numerous players overseas.
In addition to player development, the USBL offers excellent opportunities for coaches, referees, and front office administrative personnel seeking to further their respective careers. Head Coaches receive experience by working with players and designing game strategies while referees are presented with a challenge of officiating fast-paced, action packed professional games. People involved with management aspects gain unparalleled experience and insights into the operation of a professional sports franchise. Franchises also become more involved with their communities by providing a professional sports team, which becomes an active vehicle for pleasure, community service and profit.
Not only is the USBL a developmental forum, but it is also a revolutionary business enterprise. Established as the only professional sports league to utilize franchising techniques, the USBL offers potential owners one of the least expensive franchises to purchase and operate in the professional sports industry. The sensible expansion blueprint and realistic budgets allow businesspersons the opportunity to become involved at a reasonable investment level. Corporate sponsors, who seek to reap the benefits of an association with professional athletics, also receive an excellent return on their investment through the achievement of solid market value and grass roots penetration.
An emphasis on sound operations, proven business methods and a commitment to its players, coaches, owners and fans translates into a winning and successful formula for the USBL and everyone involved with “The League of Opportunity.”
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