Derek Anderson is an anomaly. In a sports world chock-full
of horror stories about post-career financial mismanagement, this former hoops
star has not only thrived in the aftermath of a successful NBA career, but he’s
now making an equally indelible impression in the business world.
As the CEO of Anderson
Developments and Loyalty Unlimited, the former NBA star has developed an impressive
portfolio of business ventures that has both athletes and entrepreneurs alike seeking to adapt his successful business model. During a recent interview
with rolling out, Anderson offered some insight into the inner workings of his burgeoning business
empire.
Have you always had a passion for business?
Always. But every time someone would meet me — as soon as
they saw my height — they just assumed that I played basketball. I never wanted
my life to be predicated on just one thing, though. So I was determined to not
be the stereotypical athlete. Starting with my rookie year, I began to lay the
groundwork to be a successful businessman, and I have been following that path
ever since.
Is that the path that led
you into the entertainment industry as well?
Yes. I have a production company called Loyalty Media Group, and
the goal is to provide an avenue for those individuals that have a desire to
break into the entertainment industry. I want to open up doors for others, and
support them in a way that you don’t typically see with us.
Staying on the
entertainment side, we’ve heard rumblings regarding a possible documentary about
the 1996 national championship season at the University of Kentucky.
What was the inspiration behind this?
The reason behind me doing this documentary is to give
people an in-depth look at what it took to become what many consider the
greatest team ever. I also wanted to
give them answers to their many questions on what it was like to be a part of
that particular team, and that memorable season.
What did the journey
and ultimate triumph of that team teach you as an individual, and how have you
applied it to your life today?
It taught me that sacrifice and faith can take you further
than fame ever will. Hard work and dedication definitely pays off.
How can stories such as these positively affect people today?
It will show that what you do
now, can and will mean something later. Leave a legacy!
**Stay tuned for the Derek Anderson video interview in
its entirety.
