How Athletes Turn Fame into Business Empires

A major university is hosting a talk about the hidden side of sports stardom. The University of South Carolina will welcome experts who handle the business of being an athlete. Jade-Li English, a top agent from CAA Basketball, will share insights. She will be joined by Bianca Crawford Shelton and Charece Williams, who co-founded Next Level Partners. Rushondra James from the university will also take part. Together they know how to turn talent into lasting brands.

The discussion will cover how players build identities beyond the game. Topics include contract negotiations, endorsement deals, and personal branding. The speakers will explain how athletes become cultural influencers. They will also explore partnerships that extend far beyond the court. This is not just about playing well. It is about thinking like an entrepreneur from day one.

The event is part of the 2026 Baldwin Lecture series. It aims to pull back the curtain on sports as a business. Students and fans often see only the highlights. This talk reveals the strategy meetings, the legal frameworks, and the long-term planning. Understanding this side changes how we view athletic careers. It shows that success requires a team off the field too.

Mark your calendar for November 10. The session runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. It will take place at the Joseph F. Rice School of Law Auditorium. Admission details will be announced soon. Anyone curious about the business of sports should attend. The knowledge shared could apply to many career paths. Building a personal brand matters in every field today.