UNION, NJ — Mark A. Tatum, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the National Basketball Association (NBA), will visit Kean University on Monday, November 17, to share insights on the league’s global business strategies and the future of sports and entertainment as part of the President’s Distinguished Lecture Series.
The event, which is open to the public, will offer an inside look at the NBA’s international growth and Tatum’s career and leadership journey. Kean’s Vice President of Athletics and Recreation Kelly Williams will moderate a question-and-answer session.
“Mark Tatum embodies the global mindset and commitment to excellence that we work to instill in our students at Kean,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. “His impact at the NBA and role in expanding the sport’s international reach set a powerful example for future leaders.”
Mark A. Tatum, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer of the NBA, will be speaking at Kean University this coming Monday, November 17th – Image Credit: Kean University
Tatum oversees the NBA’s global business operations and has played a key role in expanding the league’s growth and international presence. Appointed Deputy Commissioner and COO in 2014, Tatum spearheaded the NBA’s first games in Africa, the United Arab Emirates and India. He also guided the launch of the Basketball Africa League, the NBA’s first league outside of North America, and helped establish the NBA Academy program for top prospects from outside the U.S.
A recognized industry leader, Tatum has been named one of Forbes’ Top 25 Most Influential Minorities in Sports and has twice appeared on SportsBusiness Journal’s list of the 50 Most Influential People in Sports Business.
The President’s Distinguished Lecture Series brings a range of prestigious speakers to campus. Speakers have included former U.S. Senator Al Franken; human rights leader Ndaba Mandela, the grandson of the late Nelson Mandela; autism advocate and animal scientist Temple Grandin, Ph.D.; and tech journalist Kara Swisher.
Tickets are available at www.kean.edu/lectureseries.
Tatum’s appearance is the second President’s Distinguished Lecture of the 2025-2026 academic year. The next speaker in the series is Nate Burleson, Emmy Award-winning analyst and CBS Mornings co-host, on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
Information Courtesy of Kean University
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