Podcast: Deon Thomas, University of Illinois

Deon Thomas, All-time leading scorer for University of Illinois basketball

Listen in to this week’s episode as Deon Thomas, the All-time leading scorer for the University of Illinois basketball sits down with our host Roy Kessel to talk about his playing days, his coaching career and how those two experiences along with his background growing up impact the work that he is doing in the community.

Deon Thomas shares his wisdom with our host Roy Kessel in this week’s episode

01:00 Post College career
03:00 Joined Play Ball, teaching sports to children
04:30 Coaching Career
06:55 Walked away from basketball
14:00 Background and life growing up
17:10 Role at University of Illinois, Chicago
21:10 Conversation with the students/biggest equalizer
23:30 Plans after sports
32:00 Grandmother’s influence
35:30 Speeches to schools
38:00 What rule would he change in basketball

If you would like more information about the work that Deon Thomas is performing in the community or if you like to connect with him, please let us know and we would be happy to connect you!!

basketball, careers in sports, community relations, Deon Thomas, Macabbi Tel Aviv, Roy Kessel, Sports Philanthropy, Sports Philanthropy Network, University of Illinois

Roy Kessel

Roy Kessel is the Founder of the Sports Philanthropy Network. Roy has worked in the sports business world for over 20 years including serving as an instructor in Northwestern University's graduate Sports Management Program. Having served as a sports lawyer representing athletes, entrepreneurs and start-up businesses, Roy has extensive experience helping organizations improve their strategy, marketing, communications and leadership development.