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In professional basketball, not every player’s journey is scripted with early draft selections and long-term contracts. Some carve their paths through resilience, adaptation, and a deep love for the game. Damien Wilkins is one of those players. From going undrafted in 2004 to becoming a leader in basketball operations, Wilkins has seamlessly transitioned from the court to the front office, shaping the future of the sport through Overtime Elite (OTE).
For Damien Wilkins, basketball runs in the family. He is the son of Gerald Wilkins and the nephew of Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins. But despite this deep-rooted legacy, Damien was determined to make a name for himself. Growing up, he resisted simply following in his family’s footsteps, instead focusing on building his identity as a player.
His journey led him to NC State and later the University of Georgia, where he established himself as a tough, hard-working athlete. Though he wasn’t selected in the 2004 NBA Draft, he refused to let that define his career. He secured a spot with the Seattle SuperSonics through sheer perseverance, proving himself as a valuable defender and role player.
The Hardest Road: From Undrafted to Playoff Starter
Many young players expect to hear their names called on draft night. Wilkins did, too. Sitting in New York, suited up and waiting, he believed he would land with the Miami Heat or Atlanta Hawks. But the call never came.
Instead of sulking, Wilkins got right back in the gym. Within two weeks, he landed an opportunity with the SuperSonics. Fighting for one of two available roster spots among eight candidates, Wilkins played his way onto the team and ended up starting in the playoffs as a rookie.
His NBA career spanned over a decade, with stints in Seattle, Minnesota, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Detroit. Along the way, he embraced the importance of adaptability, knowing that securing a spot on a team wasn’t just about talent—it was about finding and owning a role.
After hanging up his sneakers, Wilkins transitioned into a leadership role with Overtime Elite, a groundbreaking basketball league designed to develop young talent. OTE, launched in 2021, is reshaping the landscape for high school prospects, offering a direct path to professional basketball. With financial backing from investors like Jeff Bezos and Drake, the league provides elite training, education, and financial support to its athletes.
One of OTE’s biggest success stories is the Thompson twins, Amen and Ausar, who made history in the 2023 NBA Draft. Amen was selected fourth overall by the Houston Rockets, while Ausar went fifth to the Detroit Pistons, marking the first time brothers were drafted in the top five in the same year. Wilkins, now the General Manager and Head of Basketball at OTE, played a key role in preparing these young stars for the league.
Wilkins’ story isn’t just about personal success; it’s about passing down knowledge. Throughout his career—as a player and now as an executive—he has emphasized the importance of work ethic, coachability, and understanding the business side of basketball.
One key lesson he shares with young players is to focus on development over hype. Many athletes today get caught up in social media attention and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, but Wilkins stresses that securing playing time and growth should be the priority. He often tells players: “Pick the school that gives you the most minutes, not just the biggest check.”
From his playing days to his current role at Overtime Elite, Damien Wilkins has proven that success in basketball extends far beyond the hardwood. His journey serves as an inspiration—not just for players looking to make it in the league, but for anyone striving to transition into new opportunities while staying true to their passion.
As OTE continues to grow, Wilkins stands at the forefront, helping shape the future of basketball by mentoring the next generation. His story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of embracing new challenges—proving that the best players don’t just run their race; they help pave the way for others to follow.
Catch the full conversation with Damien Wilkins on Run Your Race, where he went deeper into his journey, shares insider stories from his playing days, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring athletes.
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