He has traded in his uniform for a business suit, but Sam Perkins is still as involved as ever with the NBA game, in his new role as the vice president of player relations for the Indiana Pacers.
Perkins enjoyed a storied 17-year professional career that saw him visit the NBA Finals three times and distinguish himself as a complete player. He possessed a sweet, left-handed, outside shooting touch, which allowed him to have great success behind the three-point line throughout his entire career.
He contributed solidly to the Pacers in the final three years of his playing days and made a solid impression on those who ran the franchise, setting the stage for the transition to his current role.
“I consider my main responsibility to be the provision of resources to players that will help them enhance their ability to prosper off the playing court in their personal life, and contribute to the community that this franchise receives great support from,” said the affable Perkins. “It goes far beyond basketball as a career choice.”
Perkins is quick to point out his college experience, during which he was a prominent member of both an NCAA Championship and an Olympic Championship — were the best four years of his life.
Playing for the legendary Dean Smith at North Carolina taught Perkins the importance of structure in his personal life and how to prepare for life beyond sports. He feels that many of the young players in the NBA do have the distinct advantage that the college experience provided him, one that certainly enhances the maturation process of a person, as well as a basketball player.
There are a number of players entering the NBA after one year of college who need a support system. In conjunction with resources made available through the NBA and the Players Association, many teams are providing additional resources at the local level on an ongoing basis.
Perkins points out that the support system is not only limited to young players, as from time to time, veteran players need advice, direction and support as well.
“We try and make sure all of our players have the necessary support they need when dealing with basketball issues or issues pertaining to other aspects of their personal or professional life.”
In light of past off the court troubles, Perkins spoke glowingly about the current team and their efforts to make positive contributions to the Indianapolis community and beyond.
“It is an obligation we take seriously and I look forward to our efforts increasing and making an even bigger impact.”
In addition to his pivotal role with the Pacers, Perkins is also active in various league initiatives including the NBA Cares Program and Basketball Without Borders, which allows him the opportunity to travel globally and participate in instructional camps for young people. The camps help promote healthy living and education.
Perkins’ travels have taken him to Europe, China and Africa, but he considers Indianapolis to be his primary focus as he continues to work with the players locally in hopes of strengthening their careers, both on the floor, and in the community.
Danny Bridges can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or Bridgeshd@aol.com.
