Kathy Behrens has been a central figure in NBA community outreach, helping launch NBA Cares in 2005, building the NBA Foundation and the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition during the pandemic, and shaping a long-running career in player development and community programs.

NBA Cares has logged more than 6.5 million volunteer hours and generated hundreds of millions of dollars for charitable groups since its 2005 inception, with widespread participation from players and coaches.

Behrens led collaborations like Basketball Without Borders and relief efforts after disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, engaging hundreds of players and coaches in outreach.

Upon her departure, her staff will report to David Weiss, the NBA’s EVP of Operations & Administration.

Behrens described leaving as a difficult but necessary step to pursue new opportunities, noting the NBA Finals tradition with Dan Rube as a part of her enduring connection to the league.

She spoke of the personal significance of her work, calling it a gift to pass on, and acknowledged the challenge of leaving a role she loves.

Her decision comes after 25 years with the NBA and aligns with her readiness to explore new opportunities while remaining grateful for the experiences and relationships built.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Behrens for her work in supporting players’ careers and life after basketball and for advocating basketball’s positive societal impact.

Silver hailed Behrens as a trusted colleague and advocate who helped players manage careers and life beyond the court, underscoring her extraordinary contributions.

Silver noted Behrens’s overall impact on player development and life after basketball, highlighting her longstanding influence within the league.

Behrens has held roles such as executive director of New York Cares and has served on boards including NBA China and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Board of Governors; she will join the University of Hartford Board of Regents and pursue consulting in sports impact and philanthropy.

Kathy Behrens, President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs for the NBA since 2015, will depart the league office at year’s end after 26 years with the NBA.