Venice, CA – July 2025
Last week marked an exciting milestone – the launch of our inaugural Sports & Business Mixer in partnership with JP Morgan, hosted in the vibrant heart of Venice, California at the Lighthouse Campus.Bringing together over 40 athletes, financial leaders, business and entertainment professionals, this invite-only event sparked honest conversations and created lasting connections around one powerful theme: the business of being an athlete. From career transitions to wealth-building strategies, this was an evening of education, inspiration, and a call to action.
Powerful Conversations, Real Impact
The event opened with an all-star panel, featuring:
- Troy Daniels (Former NBA Player)
- Kenyon Barner (Former NFL Player)
- Sheldon Day (NFL Player)
This group shared deeply personal experiences about managing money throughout their careers. Their vulnerability and honesty set the tone for the night, proving that financial education is not simply about numbers but about identity, legacy, and confidence. As former NFL player Kenyon Barner put it, “Don’t let your talent take you places your character can’t keep you.” That reminder echoed through the room and reinforced the message that financial literacy is about more than just building wealth. It is about sustaining it with integrity and self-awareness.
The second panel highlighted the careers and experiences of three professional female basketball players, featuring:
- Shalaunda Burney-Robinson (“LaLa”)
- Chelsea Phillips (“Barbie”)
- Jessica Medina
These exceptional women offered a powerful perspective on the world of women’s sports, from the financial realities of playing overseas to the opportunities arising from a growing industry. Throughout the conversation, themes of access to opportunities and education, and the power of community rose to the forefront.
A Call to Action, A Moment of Unity
In an unforgettable closing moment, Troy Daniels returned to the stage to challenge the room to think bigger – athletes and JP Morgan leaders alike. His message was clear: To take this momentum and turn it into meaningful, ongoing support, as well as to find real ways to equip more athletes, especially women, with the financial tools and wealth creation opportunities they deserve.
The evening succeeded in more than just business, however, thanks to the support of El Cristiano Tequila, Rolus Neverstill, Ketel One, and the fantastic efforts of Tia Lastname, this is her role. Situated in the warm and stylish setting of The Lighthouse venue, guests enjoyed a carefully curated wine tasting provided by Savoy & Sons Winery, worldclass food, and thoughtfully prepared gift bags, all enjoyed within an atmosphere of authentic connection.
What’s Next
The JP Morgan Sports & Business Mixer was more than an event – it was a beautiful beginning. The beginning of conversations that are paving the way for future programming, deeper partnerships, and new ways to empower athletes at every stage of their journey.
For athletes, whether you are just beginning your journey or looking towards your legacy, our message is the same: You are not alone. The Players Company provides the right tools, the right people, and the right platform for every athlete to become the CEO of their financial future.
And we’re just getting started!
