“David Kelly is a transformational leader and one of the most respected legal minds in the game,” said NBPA Executive Director Andre Iguodala. “I am pleased the players recognize he is the right person to unapologetically fight for them. I took this role to scale the union beyond its traditional limitations and build a truly player-centric entity. I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made and will remain dedicated to our players long after my tenure ends.”
For the past year, Kelly has served as the Managing Director and General Counsel for the NBPA. In this role, he leads all legal matters, uniting the Union, THINK450 and NBPA Foundation, while overseeing the strategic direction of the organization. Kelly has also served as a close advisor to Iguodala and NBPA President Fred VanVleet.
“I am honored that the players have trusted me to lead this next chapter alongside our dedicated Executive Committee,” said NBPA Managing Director and General Counsel David Kelly. “The energy and momentum Andre has built has created an incredible opportunity for our players.”
“Since my election, David has been a trusted advisor to me and the Executive Committee with an unwavering dedication to the players,” said NBPA President Fred VanVleet. “I look forward to our continued work together. The players and I cannot thank Andre enough for his leadership and sacrifice over these few past years.”
Prior to joining the NBPA, Kelly oversaw many key initiatives at the Golden State Warriors, including negotiating major sponsorship and licensing deals; managing the property acquisition, entitlement, and construction of Chase Center; and launching Golden State Entertainment (GSE), a first-of-its-kind content arm developing film, music, and culture for the Warriors and Valkyries. Prior to launching GSE, Kelly managed the team’s salary cap, oversaw all matters related to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), and led the organization’s player development efforts.
Kelly was previously a partner at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, where he advised clients on acquisitions, securities law compliance, and corporate governance matters. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Morehouse College and his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Illinois College of Law.
Kelly will assume his role as Executive Director in July, following the NBPA’s annual summer meeting of the Board of Player Representatives.
