Chrysa Chin, a proud daughter of New York City, started her professional basketball career in 1991. In the years since, she’s become the most visible face and driving force behind the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). Chin is special assistant to executive director/manager. Additionally, she has developed an amazing relationship with decades of NBA players. She has served the association for more than 17 years. Indeed, her second term has stretched over a decade.
Chin’s role as chief player engagement officer is crucial. On the NBPA side, he’s executive vice president of strategic engagement and development. In this new role, she puts into practice every day the skills she’s sharpened as a strategic advisor, crisis manager, and change leader. She builds player relations and contributes to their professional development.
Standing at only 4-foot-11¾, Chin is a far cry from the archetype of the sports-industry executive. At only 4′, her presence looms large, demanding respect while at the same time earning the trust of everyone in her sphere. Over the years, she has built a reputation as a confidante for NBA players, earning nicknames that reflect her influence. She gained the nickname “The Hat Lady” throughout the recent NBA draft for guiding these individuals through their most crucial moments. She has earned the nicknames of “Secret Weapon” and “Black Ops,” alluding to her crucial role behind-the-scenes.
She has worked with the NBPA since 1991. It was not an easy role, requiring both her heart and hardiness. After a first term of 17 ½ years, Chin resigned from the association when executive director Charlie Grantham left under pressure. Her desire to continue advocating for players drove her back to the organization. She even accepted a $20,000 pay cut to do so and keep doing the important work that she was leading.
Chin’s relationship with the players is deepened by her son, a product of the basketball life, who has grown up in and around the basketball ecosystem. It’s his experiences that enable her to connect with today’s players on a deeper level, traversing generational divides. Her experience gives her a one of a kind outlook that helps her connect with the athletes she trains.
Chin, too, has a strong commitment to player development. She’s deeply involved in mentorship initiatives such as BAL Speak Up Africa, through which she inspires and equips young women. Her influence stretches beyond the sport of basketball, illustrating her passion for developing talent and fostering growth in communities near and far.
“It defines my relationship to them. They are all good, but the nicknames ‘Secret Weapon’ and ‘Black Ops’ crack me up.” – Chrysa Chin
Chin’s diligent work is part of a bigger picture showing the NBPA’s dedication to getting players involved. Through her strategic leadership and vision, players have 360-degree support as they transition through their careers. The network she builds to support that work proves vital to the overall success of the players and the association.
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