Damond L . Williams

Damond Williams is an accomplished basketball player, founder, author, and artist based in Chicago, Illinois. He is a former NCAA D1 standout and Harlem Globetrotter who has traveled extensively and played for several international basketball clubs. In addition to his success on the court, Damond is also known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to giving back to the community. He is the founder of the Chicago Basketball Academy (CBA), which is a global company that creates high-quality programs and services to provide alternative career opportunities for aspiring NCAA, NBA, and FIBA athletes. The academy offers training, mentorship, and resources to help young athletes achieve their goals and transition smoothly into post-playing careers. The academy also provides support for student-athletes who have been academically disqualified and need help regaining their eligibility. He is a strong advocate for education and has helped many young athletes obtain scholarships to attend prep schools and colleges. He has also been actively involved in several community organizations and programs that support young people and promote leadership and fostering the passion of individuals.

With Damond's extensive experience as a high-school, collegiate and professional basketball player, he founded the CBA to provide high-quality programming for athletes and aspiring athletes who don't make it to the NCAA, NBA or FIBA level, as well as to help them reach their full potential as individuals who are passionate about the sport of basketball. One of the unique programs offered by the CBA is the Basketball Economy Program (BEP). This program is designed to provide participants with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field of basketball beyond playing. The program covers topics such as sports management, marketing, and entrepreneurship, giving basketball enthusiasts a well-rounded education that prepares them for a successful career in basketball. Through the BEP and other offerings at the CBA, Damond Williams is dedicated to helping participants not only become better basketball players, but also providing them with the tools they need to succeed in the business side of the sport. His passion and commitment to the sport and the development of young athletes have made the CBA a leading program in Chicago and beyond. Damond’s passion for basketball and his desire to help young athletes reach their full potential is evident in the programs and services offered by the CBA. Through his leadership and guidance, the academy has become a valuable resource for aspiring athletes and has helped many young men and women reach their goals both on and off the court.

In addition to his success as a founder, Williams is also an accomplished author. He has written extensively about his experiences as an athlete and entrepreneur, providing insights and advice to those who are looking to pursue their dreams and succeed in competitive fields. Williams has a licensing agreement with W.W. Norton & Company for an excerpt from his unpublished manuscript about the lack of career opportunities for disadvantaged athletes and those aspiring to play professional basketball and don’t make it. The excerpt will be featured in the 6th edition of ‘They Say / I Say’ written by Dr. Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein. Through his art and his writing, Williams has established himself as a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur who is committed to using his talents to make a positive impact on the world. He continues to inspire and influence others through his creative works and his dedication to helping others succeed.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Williams is also an artist. As an artist, Williams has had several successful exhibitions in Chicago, showcasing his unique talent and creativity. His works have been featured at the Chicago Art Department and the Whitehall Hotel, among other locations. These exhibits have allowed Williams to showcase his artistic abilities to a broader audience, and they have been well-received by art enthusiasts and critics alike. Williams' art is a reflection of his life experiences and his journey as an athlete and entrepreneur. His artwork often explores themes of identity, culture, and expression, drawing on his personal experiences and observations of the world around him. Williams uses a variety of mediums, including charcoal, lead, and acryllics, to express his ideas and share his perspective with the world.