Jonathan Bender

Jonathan Bender, a former NBA player who once played for teams including the Indiana Pacers, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks, was highly regarded as one of the most versatile prospects capable of playing all five positions on the court. He achieved a notable milestone in the 1999 McDonald's All-American game by scoring 31 points, surpassing Michael Jordan's record and establishing himself as a promising talent in professional basketball.

However, Bender's promising career was cut short by a knee injury, leading to his early retirement at age 25. The financial security from his NBA earnings began to diminish, prompting him to explore various ventures such as concert promotion, rescue work, and real estate investment, although these efforts saw limited success. His interest in entrepreneurship and product invention was sparked by the influence of Mel Simon, a self-made entrepreneur. This inspiration led Bender to visualize and create the "JB Intensive Trainer," a resistance-based training and rehabilitation device designed to improve mobility. His initial prototype, crafted from duct tape, cables, and ankle weights, was pivotal in his own recovery, allowing him to strengthen his lower body and eventually return to professional basketball with the New York Knicks in 2009, after a four-year hiatus.

Bender's comeback to the NBA showcased his remarkable recovery, where he demonstrated exceptional lower-body strength, surprising many, including team doctors. Despite an offer to continue with the Knicks, he chose to focus on perfecting his invention, which has since assisted thousands in their rehabilitation efforts. The commercial launch of the JB Intensive Trainer in July 2013 was a success, generating significant revenue in its first year.

In addition to his entrepreneurial achievements, Bender has authored "The Courtside CEO," a book that details his transition from an athlete to a successful entrepreneur, highlighting how he applied the disciplines of professional sports to business. Currently, Bender discusses topics such as innovation, entrepreneurship, preventative health, and personal brand reinvention at various events. His presentations, enriched with personal anecdotes and business insights, encourage audiences to embrace flexibility, innovate, and adapt to change, leveraging his unique experiences from both his sports and business careers.