Thurl Bailey

From the youth to the corporate world, Thurl Bailey inspires others to win whatever the odds or disappointments. 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 (Phi-Slamma-Jamma) Cougars, featuring Hakeem Olajuwon & Clyde Drexler. That nation championship game was voted top 5 finishes of all time of any sporting event. Because of his 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 N. B. A., 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 "N.B.A.'s Mr. Nice Guy".

When you meet Thurl Bailey you first notice a tall (6' 11") athlete. But he is a man of as much depth as height. Bailey is a gifted inspirational singer and songwriter. His first album, "Faith In Your Heart", released in 2000 was a best seller. His second album, "The Gift of Christmas", released the following year, also experienced record sales. His latest released CD is entitled, "I'm Not The Same", is a selection of uplifting R & B tunes. 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 N. B. A.'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, The Great Salt Lake Council of the Boy Scouts of America's American Champion Award, and the Italian League's 1998 All Star Games' Most Valuable Player.

One of Bailey's favorite activities is his youth basketball program he has led for over 20 years. It teaches important life skills, and has now expanded to the corporate world to help businesses build winning teams and effective leaders.

Bailey leads a busy life as a professional speaker, singer/songwriter, businessman, community advocate and game analyst for the Utah Jazz. He is a devoted family man and the father of six children. He and his wife Sindi reside in Salt Lake City.