Get All Access for $5/mo

What Makes a Real MVP NBA superstar Kevin Durant's manager and business partner talks about personal branding and working hard.

By David Meltzer

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Rich Kleiman is Kevin Durant's manager as well as his co-founder and business partner in Thirty Five Ventures, a startup that invests in tech companies. In this episode of #ThePlaybook, Kleiman talks with host David Meltzer about how his role and relationship with Durant has shifted over the years, how professional athletes are taking control of their personal brands and the importance of being known for the work you do.

Kleiman talks about why he no longer views himself as a sports agent and how his role has grown with time. He also talks about how today's biggest athletes are taking more charge of their brands and messaging than ever before.

Kleiman relates his experience of hearing Durant's famous MVP speech and how that moment inspired him to step up his work ethic. He also talks about the importance of being regarded for the work he does.

Related: The Three Things a Startup Needs

David Meltzer

Co-Founder of Sports 1 Marketing, Speaker, Author and Business Coach

David Meltzer, co-founder of Sports 1 Marketing and host of Entrepreneur's podcast, “The Playbook”, is a Top 100 Business Coach, global public speaker and three-time international best-selling author who has been honored by Variety as “Sports Humanitarian of the Year”.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Business News

Here's What the CPI Report Means for Your Wallet, According to JPMorgan and EY Experts

Most experts agree that there will be another rate cut next week.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.

Growing a Business

Why Business Owners Should Streamline Their Operations Now for Success in 2025

As the holiday season and year-end approach, business owners face heightened operational demands, from inventory management to spend control. By streamlining these processes and partnering with flexible suppliers, businesses can maintain efficiency, meet customer needs and focus on growth while navigating this busy period.

Productivity

6 Habits That Help Successful People Maximize Their Time

There aren't enough hours in the day, but these tips will make them feel slightly more productive.