Houston Rockets' Fred VanVleet Elected NBPA President; Vows To Advocate For NBA Players
Rockets' Fred VanVleet (X)
Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet has been elected President of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), the official labor union representing NBA players, the NBPA announced today.
The 31-year-old veteran, chosen by his fellow players, will begin a four-year term effective immediately, taking over leadership of the organization that represents the voices and rights of NBA athletes both on and off the court.
'It's truly an honor to be elected as President of the NBPA by my peers, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for the best interest of all the members," said VanVleet in a statement released by the NBPA.
'With a deep appreciation for the complexities and challenges players face on all levels of their NBA journeys, I am committed to approaching this role with the passion, dignity, and dedication every player deserves."
As NBPA president, VanVleet will oversee key responsibilities including negotiating collective bargaining agreements, filing player grievances, and educating players on benefits and post-career opportunities. The role places him at the forefront of shaping the future of NBA labor relations and player empowerment.
VanVleet succeeds CJ McCollum, who has held the position since 2021. McCollum will remain involved in an advisory capacity.
'It's been a privilege to serve on the NBPA Executive Committee for the past seven years and uniquely shape the business of our game," said McCollum.
'I am encouraged by the future of the PA under Fred's leadership, as he has earned the basketball community's respect and has proven he is ready for this next step. I look forward to supporting him as we continue building a stronger Association that serves past, present, and future generations of players."
VanVleet's Journey: From Undrafted to Union Leader
VanVleet brings a unique perspective to the presidency, shaped by an unlikely rise in professional basketball. After going undrafted in 2016 out of Wichita State, he signed with the Toronto Raptors and spent time in the G League before earning a permanent role on the main roster.
View All Nehal Wadhera Hopes To Make India Call-Up And Excited To Play With Shreyas Iyer | Interview | News South Africa Suffer Huge Setback as David Miller Gets Injured Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025 IND vs ENG 3rd T20I: Key Changes India Are Expected to Make in Their Playing XI In Rajkot Yuvraj Singh To Join Delhi Capitals Coaching Staff For IPL 2025: Reports | Indian Premier League BREAKING: ICC Reveals Shocking Ratings of T20 World Cup Pitches View all
He eventually played a key role in the Raptors' 2019 NBA Championship run, became an NBA All-Star, and is now the highest-paid undrafted player in league history. Over his nine-year career with Toronto and now Houston, VanVleet has averaged 14.9 points and 5.7 assists per game.
Beyond the hardwood, VanVleet has established himself as a leader and advocate. In 2016, he launched the VanVleet Family Foundation, dedicated to increasing access and opportunity for youth through education, athletics, and career development.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
‘OnlyFans model ruined…': Shannon Sharpe's rape lawsuit, ESPN decision costs him millions
Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN, The Associated Press reported on Wednesday, citing sources. This comes days after the Hall of Famer tight end-turned-broadcaster settled a lawsuit that accused him of sexually assaulting a woman during their relationship. Neither the channel nor Sharpe have commented on the reported decision. Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN weeks after settling his rape lawsuit(Instagram) About two weeks ago, the accuser's attorney announced that Sharpe has reached a settlement. However, specifics were not released. The lawsuit had sought $50 million. Read More: Why was Gilbert Arenas arrested? Gambling charges against the ex-NBA star explained Sharpe called the accusations 'false and disruptive' at the time they were levied and hoped to return in time for the NFL season. 'An OnlyFans model…' Several NFL fans reacted to Shannon Sharpe and ESPN parting ways. 'Shannon Sharpe's accuser retired from OnlyFans after agreeing to a settlement less than 2 weeks ago. Now he's retired too 😭' one person wrote on X, platform formerly known as Twitter. 'Shannon Sharpe really fumbled that ESPN bag over some mid,' another one tweeted. Read More: Austin Slater contract details: How much will Yankees pay White Sox OF amid Aaron Judge's absence? 'hannon Sharpe really fumbled the ESPN bag all for an OF girl. Sheesh,' a third one said. The accuser has not been officially identified yet. Sharpe, a four-time All-Pro tight end who won three Super Bowls during his 14-year career, had signed a reported multi-year contract with ESPN last year. It was reported to be worth millions. The 57-year-old retired as the NFL's all-time leader among tight ends in receptions (815), yards receiving (10,060) and touchdowns (62). Those records have been broken. Sharpe has been a staple on TV and social media since retiring. He left FS1's sports debate show 'Undisputed' in 2023 and joined ESPN soon afterward. He served as a panelist on the network's morning show 'First Take.'
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Deni Avdija puts NBA on hold to proudly represent Israel, calls national duty his greatest honor
of the Portland Trail Blazers is becoming well-known for his steadfast loyalty to his own country in addition to his outstanding career. The 23-year-old rising star is holding off on his NBA career until this summer so that he can devote all his attention to playing for Israel at the international level. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Recently, he discussed how the Washington Wizards traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers and how the whole thing disappointed him. He also stated that he would be willing to enlighten Americans and teach them about Israel. Deni Avdija prioritizes national pride and unity over NBA offseason pursuits When many of his NBA contemporaries are using their offseasons to work on personal growth or earn money from endorsement deals, Deni Avdija has stated that his passion is elsewhere. He is prepared to carry over his breakthrough season to assist Israel's young national team in making the transition to the senior squad. In a crucial summer of European competition, he is rejoining old friends and former youth teammates to play for Israel's national team. He recently told the reporters during the same interview: 'I am not currently thinking about the NBA. Playing for the national team of Israel is the most important honor for any player.' He continued: 'Joining players I grew up with from the junior national teams is exciting. We have an amazing squad here, capable of great things. I will do everything possible to make this team successful,' he told reporters. Then, while addressing the issues in Israel, Deni Avdija said: 'Not everyone understands 100 % what is happening in Israel. We're a very small country, and there are people who live in bubbles in their countries. Many are interested, and I always explain the whole situation properly, from the right and good side. I try to show reality as much as possible.' Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Deni Avdija is a remarkable player (Image via Getty Images) Early in his NBA career, Deni Avdija was mostly an infrequent starter. In 2020, he was selected by the with the ninth overall pick. He has averaged nearly 15 points this season after recovering from a dry period to start the season. Beyond the court, his loyalty to the Israeli team is about standing for the pride in the country, identity, and unity. Also read:
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
All Hail The Queen! Divya Gets A Royal Homecoming
Nagpur: Orange City erupted with scenes of jubilation and pride on Wednesday night as its chess queen Divya Deshmukh returned home after scripting history at the FIDE Women's Chess World Cup in Batumi, Georgia. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The 19-year-old Divya, who went to Batumi as an International Master (IM), came home as a Grandmaster — the third from the city after Raunak Sadhwani and Sankalp Gupta. In the final, Divya defeated India No.1 Koneru Humpy to win the World Cup and also secure a spot in the Candidates tournament. With a hat-trick of achievements in just 27 days, Divya made every Nagpurian feel proud and was deservingly accorded a rousing welcome at Nagpur International Airport on Wednesday night. Hundreds of school students, her classmates, friends, relatives, sports administrators, and fans gathered at the airport long before the arrival of her flight. Many held banners and placards bearing her name and achievements, while others played dhols and drums, ready to welcome the champion with unmatched enthusiasm. As Divya stepped out of the arrival gate, chants of 'Divya, Divya', and 'Nagpur ki shaan' filled the air. She was immediately surrounded by her fans, who showered her with rose petals and draped her in garlands. The young champion, who couldn't stop smiling from ear to ear at the love showered on her, appeared visibly moved by the thunderous welcome. Humbled by the love and admiration pouring in from every corner of the city, Divya thanked her city and her parents, who stood by her at all times, inspiring her to give it her all and never back down. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Massive banners with her image and congratulatory messages adorned the airport premises. Chants of 'Jai Hind!' rang out as her supporters marched alongside her. She was flanked by her proud family and several dignitaries, including MLC Parinay Fuke, who is also president of Maharashtra Chess Association, former mayor Dayashankar Tiwari, former MP Ajay Sancheti, former MLC Girish Vyas, and district sports officer Pallavi Dhatrak. As Divya met relatives near the exit gate, many embraced her with teary eyes, celebrating both the victory and the pride she brought to Nagpur. Divya's journey — from playing chess in small local competitions to becoming a World Cup winner — has now become an inspiration for thousands of young minds across the country. Her win not only marks a personal triumph but has firmly placed Nagpur on the global chess map. The state govt has announced a grand felicitation for the champion at the Suresh Bhat Hall on August 2, where chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union minister Nitin Gadkari, and other bigwigs of the state are expected.
