THINK450, the licensing arm of the National Basketball Players Association, is pleased to announce that Payne Brown has been selected as its new president. In this role, Brown is responsible for providing strategic leadership, revenue management and generation opportunities for the organization.
“Payne’s extensive experience in finance, media, sports and law provide him with a truly unique set of skills and talents that will serve the NBPA and THINK450 well,” said NBPA executive director Michele Roberts. “In addition to his expertise in all of the areas that intersect with our business, he understands the needs of our players and the importance of their individual and collective brand management. Payne has proven his ability to lead and manage effectively throughout his career and I am confident that his vision for THINK450 will enhance its growth and measurable success.”
“While I am thrilled with what THINK450 has accomplished to date, I know Payne will bring the necessary experience and leadership to guide THINK450 through its next phase of growth,” said Chris Paul, president of the NBPA. “I look forward to working with Payne in identifying and developing the best possible opportunities for our members.”
Brown leaves his managing partner role at Econet Media Partners (EMP), where he focused on investing in and licensing content for distribution on the African continent. Prior to this he was managing director at Highbridge Principal Strategies (HPS) an alternative investment management organization that manages approximately $50 billion in capital. During his tenure there he led the firm’s investment into REVOLT TV, a multimedia platform founded by Sean “Diddy” Combs. In 2014, while still balancing many of his duties at Highbridge, Brown served as the chief of staff to Dick Parsons, the interim “owner” of the Los Angeles Clippers.
During this time, Brown was responsible for the day to day operations of the Clipper organization. Brown and Parsons successfully transitioned the team to its new owner, Steve Balmer for a then record purchase price of $2 billion.
Before joining HPS in 2012, Brown was vice president of strategic initiatives and a corporate officer at Comcast Corporation. He received his J.D. degree from George Washington University and a B.S. in Management from Purdue University.
“I am excited to lead THINK450 into the next era of success” said Brown. “We represent some of the most powerful cultural influencers on the planet. This organization is poised to partner with incredible brands and create amazing content that showcases the athletes of the NBA in the most innovative and
