The National Basketball Players Association [“NBPA”] announced today that Payne Brown, the President of the NBPA’s licensing arm THINK450, will step down as President, effective September 13, 2021. Brown will be rejoining his former employer HPS Investment Partners in their Los Angeles office.
Prior to his October 2018 selection as THINK450 President, Brown served as the Managing Partner at Econet Media Partners (EMP) and prior to that he was managing director at Highbridge Principal Strategies (now known as HPS Investment Partners).
In 2014 Payne served as the Chief of Staff to Dick Parsons, the then interim “owner” of the Los Angeles Clippers. During his tenure the team was sold for a then record $2 billion.
Under Payne’s leadership, THINK450’s revenue nearly doubled. He expanded the team to include a Head of Content and an SVP of Brand Partnerships.
1-Year Anniversary of Isiah Thomas’ Historic Cheurlin Champagne, NBPA, THINK450 Partnership
“It has been an honor to serve and represent 450 of the most talented athletes on the planet,” said Brown. “I’m extremely proud of the team’s accomplishments especially given the challenges presented by COVID-19. We grew revenue by nearly 100%, produced documentaries and built an amazing workplace culture. I will miss my NBPA family!”
“In just a few short years, Payne created and will leave a dynamic legacy of achievement and growth within the THINK450 orbit,” said Michele Roberts, Executive Director of the NBPA. “We will miss his wisdom and guidance.”
About the NBPA
The National Basketball Players Association is the union for current professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Established in 1954, the NBPA’s mission is to protect and support the rights and talents of our players, magnify the power of their collective will, and amplify their voices as leaders who will transcend sport and society globally.
The NBPA advocates on behalf of the best interests of all NBA players, including the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements, the filing of grievances on behalf of the players, or counseling players on benefits, educational and post-NBA career opportunities. Business opportunities are generated by THINK450, the for-profit subsidiary of the NBPA charged with managing the players’ group licensing rights.
Dedicated to preserving the legacy of its members, the NBPA Foundation provides support and assistance to persons, communities and organizations around the world that seek to improve the lives of those in need.
About THINK450
THINK450 is the innovation and partnership engine of the NBPA, dedicated to uncovering shared interests between the 450 players and leading brands to build more engaging partnerships. Together with its partners, THINK450 creates original ideas that engage fans, stir them to action, and earn brands the right to participate in cultural conversations. For more information, visit THINK450.com.
