NBA Players Association
From Hoopedia
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) is a unique labor institution. For over 40 years, the NBPA has fought to promote the best interests of NBA players both on and off the court.
Mission
To ensure that the rights of NBA players are protected, and that everything possible is being done to help players maximize their opportunities and achieve their goals on and off the court.
History
NBA players have not always enjoyed the privileges and protections that exist today. Before this union was created, players had to struggle for many of the privileges we take for granted today, like fair salaries and necessary benefits, such as a pension and health insurance.
NBPA members enjoy the highest salaries of any labor organization in the world. The average NBA player's salary is almost $4 million and within the next few seasons will likely exceed $5 million. Player benefits are first rate in every manner.
The NBPA represents all NBA players in many ways, for example:
- Negotiate the terms of a collective bargaining agreement ("CBA") with the NBA, which governs all aspects of players' employment;
- Ensure that the NBA and its teams meet their obligations under the CBA;
- Provide a full range of services and assistance through Player Services;
- Monitor and negotiate the administration of retirement and insurance benefits;
- Certify, regulate and educate player agents;
- Provide security professionals on staff to help with sensitive or other problems;
- Assist charity and community organizations; and
- Promote the image and reputation of NBA players both on and off the court.
The NBPA promises to protect aggressively player rights and interests, and to be available to address player concerns seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Players may call upon the NBPA to:
- Obtain expert legal advice and/or representation in a dispute;
- Receive salary and other information to help in individual contract negotiations;
- File a grievance;
- Appeal a fine or suspension;
- Help resolve player/agent disputes; or
- Protect medical or other rights and benefits.
