In this episode of Case Studies, Casey Baugh sits down with Dave Checketts, the youngest president in NBA history and former CEO of Madison Square Garden. From saving bankrupt franchises to leading iconic sports organizations, Dave shares the defining moments that shaped his career and his character.
This conversation goes far beyond headlines and trophies. Dave opens up about faith, injustice, loss, and the unseen preparation behind opportunity. He reflects on how early rejection fueled resilience, how mentorship changed the trajectory of his life, and why building “championship culture” matters more than talent or capital alone.
Now operating in private equity after decades in the global sports spotlight, Dave explains why influence without attention has become more fulfilling than power with a platform. This is a rare masterclass on leadership, readiness, and building a life of meaning long after the applause fades.
⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 | Admiration, Sports, and a Life in Leadership
03:35 | Growing Up in Bountiful & Learning to Hustle Early
08:34 | Rejection, Injustice, and Missing High School Basketball
12:20 | Turning Setbacks into Fuel for Growth
15:25 | Making the BYU Basketball Team Against the Odds
20:14 | Faith, Obedience, and a Defining Spiritual Promise
24:19 | Why That One Year of College Basketball Mattered
28:19 | Ambition at 70 and Never Being Finished
30:48 | Business School, Bain, and Early Career Acceleration
35:27 | Clayton Christensen, Mentorship, and Consulting
41:31 | Helping Danny Ainge and Entering Pro Sports
47:26 | Walking into the NBA Office Unannounced
52:58 | Sparring with David Stern—and Earning His Trust
57:09 | Why the Celtics Deal Fell Apart
59:17 | Being Chosen to Save the Utah Jazz at 27
01:02:42 | Championship Culture vs. Winning Culture
01:09:14 | Painful Partnerships and Hard Lessons
01:16:21 | Tragedy, Loss, and Perspective
01:20:04 | Faith, Gratitude, and the Experiences You Wouldn’t Choose
01:22:14 | Raising Capital to Save the Jazz
01:27:00 | Legacy Beyond Sports and the Spotlight
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