In a groundbreaking move in the sports industry, FreeGame has officially launched as a full-service athlete management and representation group, all designed by athletes for athletes. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, this pioneering organization is co-founded by Derrick Brown and Jordan Taylor, both accomplished former professional basketball players who aim to redefine the landscape of athlete management with their deep-rooted expertise and experience.
The Vision Behind FreeGame
The founding principle of FreeGame revolves around the idea that athletes should take control of their own careers through informed decision-making. With over 125 combined years of professional and collegiate playing experience, the FreeGame team is uniquely positioned to guide emerging talents through the highs and lows of their careers. Brown, who has played for teams like the Charlotte Hornets and New York Knicks, emphasizes that their model is built on trust and transparency, aiming to fill the void left by traditional management structures they encountered during their playing days.
Comprehensive Services for Athletes
FreeGame's holistic approach encompasses a wide range of services that are pivotal for modern athletes:
- - Contract Advising: Offering expertise on agreements and negotiations.
- - Skill Evaluation: Comprehensive assessments to tailor training regimens.
- - On-Court Training: Personalized coaching sessions to enhance skills.
- - Film Study and Analytics: Utilizing advanced analytics to provide feedback.
- - Brand Development: Creating a personal brand and social media strategy for athletes.
- - Marketing Execution: Connecting athletes with sponsorship opportunities.
- - Education on Sports Business: Teaching the ins and outs of professional sports.
- - Post-Career Guidance: Supporting athletes in their transition after sports.
A New Type of Athlete Manager
A distinguishing feature of FreeGame is its team of 'Athlete Managers', all of whom share firsthand experiences and challenges faced during their careers. This understanding allows them to offer a more relatable and effective management style. Players are not just numbers; they are nurtured, coached, and guided with empathy and knowledge.
Jordan Taylor, another co-founder, represents the twin pillar of vision at FreeGame, reinforcing the importance of having trusted partners to navigate the difficult choices athletes face. With over 12 years of professional experience and accolades including being a two-time All-American at Wisconsin, Taylor's influence is instrumental in shaping FreeGame's ethos of empowerment and education for its clientele.
Initial Focus and Future Aspirations
As FreeGame launches, it focuses on a select group of over 15 athletes, primarily in men’s and women’s basketball and football. However, the organization has plans to expand its management to a diverse array of sports and aims to become a significant player in the broader market. With the collective background of its founders and the authenticity it possesses, FreeGame is set to attract not only upcoming athletes but also those at different stages of their careers seeking personalized support.
Commitment to Community and Growth
FreeGame's mission is not just to manage athletes but to construct a supportive community for them. By providing a platform that encourages athletes to voice their thoughts and preferences, FreeGame strives to create a cooperative environment where all parties can thrive. The goal is simple yet profound: to facilitate a journey where every athlete feels confident, informed, and in control.
For aspiring athletes looking for guidance or established players seeking to optimize their career paths, FreeGame offers a much-needed alternative in the athlete management sector. The fusion of firsthand player experiences with a comprehensive service portfolio positions FreeGame as a trailblazer—one that genuinely understands what it means to navigate the intricate world of sports.