Thurl Bailey

Thurl Bailey inspires others to win whatever the odds or disappointments, from the youth to the corporate world. Master storyteller and accomplished speaker, he inspires companies and individuals to focus on what matters most; to persevere, build winning teams, encourage peak performance, develop leadership, and discover opportunity in change.

Twice Bailey has led teams from far behind to win national championships. His most recognized title was the 1983 North Carolina State Wolfpack team which beat the famed University of Houston Cougars. That national championship game was selected by Sports Illustrated as the greatest sports ending in the 20th century.

Bailey’s new book, "Team of Destiny," chronicles that incredible journey and teaches readers how his coach Jim Valvano led a group of passionate young men to be the best team in college basketball and what it takes to develop a “Championship Mindset”.

Because of Bailey’s outstanding leadership skills and the quality of his character, as well as his impressive basketball skills, he was drafted by the Utah Jazz as the 1983 7th overall pick of the N. B.A. Draft. Bailey spent twelve of his sixteen-year professional basketball career in the NBA, and four years playing overseas, in Italy and Greece. His courtesy and integrity both on and off the court and his strong sense of community service have led to numerous civic awards and earned him the nickname "NBA's Mr. Nice Guy".

When you meet Bailey, you first notice a 7 feet tall athlete. But he is a man of as much depth as height. Bailey is a gifted inspirational singer and songwriter. Among his many musical awards are the 2000 Pearl Awards of Best Contemporary Recording and Best New Artist of the Year.

His other awards include the NBA's prestigious J. Walter Kennedy Community Service Award, the Utah Association for Gifted Children Community Service Award, Sigma Gamma Chi Fraternity's Exemplary Manhood Award and The Great Salt Lake Council of the Boy Scouts of America's American Champion Award.

Bailey and his wife Sindi have 3 children, and make their home in Salt Lake City, Utah.