SE Valley Times

A former NBA All-Star and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer emphasized the unifying power of sports during a fireside chat with students at Arizona State University. Grant Hill, who played for the Phoenix Suns among other teams, highlighted how sports bring together people from diverse backgrounds. "The real power of sports is bringing people together from all walks of life," Hill stated.

Hill's appearance was hosted by ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business on January 27th, where he shared insights with around 125 students. Elana Kutz, managing director of student and external affairs for the sports business degree program, had invited Hill after meeting him at an airport in Las Vegas.

Kutz expressed admiration for Hill's career both as an athlete and beyond. "Grant Hill has achieved incredible success both on and off the court," she said. She praised his transition from professional athlete to team owner and broadcaster.

During the event, Hill discussed various topics including his upbringing, college achievements with Duke University under coach Mike Kryzewski, and his 19-year NBA career that faced challenges like severe injuries.

Reflecting on his basketball journey, Hill noted the influence of ESPN in popularizing college basketball during his youth. He also recounted choosing Duke University because of Coach Kryzewski's leadership qualities.

After graduating from Duke in 1994, Hill was drafted by the Detroit Pistons and later became part of the USA Olympic Team that won gold in Atlanta in 1996. However, a severe ankle injury affected his career trajectory.

Post-retirement in 2013, Hill transitioned into ownership roles within professional sports franchises such as the Atlanta Hawks and Orlando SC. He advised students aspiring to work in sports to be proactive and diligent: "Everybody is constantly looking for great talent and young energy."

Attendees like Joe Ceccarelli appreciated Hill's insights on merging sports with business endeavors. Togin Akinsipe valued learning about planning for life after a sports career.

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