Ricki Dean
NBPA
2011
Ricki Dean serves as the Senior Director of Player Engagement for the National Basketball
Players Association (NBPA). Housed within the Player Experience team, Ricki co-leads the
engagement vertical, dedicated to supporting players in every aspect of their journey on and off
the court. Whether connecting players with NBPA services, guiding them through opportunities,
or addressing challenges, Ricki is known as a trusted teammate and resource.
In her previous roles at the NBPA, Ricki managed concierge services, crisis management, and
elite basketball outreach. She also led the ICONic Program, a transitional support initiative for
players under the age of 21, offering them tailored resources to navigate life as a professional
athlete.
Ricki first joined the NBPA in 2015 but briefly departed for the 2021-22 season to manage
player engagement and family services for the San Antonio Spurs. There, she revamped the
onboarding experience and provided specialized support for players and their families.
Ricki's passion for player development began as a student manager for the University of North
Carolina at Chapel Hill Women's Basketball team. Upon graduating, she earned a Bachelor's in
Sport Administration and Sociology, with a minor in Spanish in the Professions. Ricki then
pursued a Master's in Sport Industry Management from Georgetown University, with internships
at the National Football League Players Association and the Washington Wizards helping lay the
groundwork for her career in player engagement.
A Philadelphia native now based just outside of Washington, DC, Ricki was named to The
Athletic's 2024 "NBA 40 Under 40" list, recognizing her leadership, innovation, and ongoing
impact in the sports industry. Beyond the court, Ricki enjoys traveling, attending music festivals,
and spending time with family and friends, especially her niece.
Ricki graduated from UNC in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sport Science: Sport
Administration with a Second Major in Sociology and Minor in Spanish in the Professions.