It’s a common occurrence around our campus to meet students who excel at many things, not just their chosen major or extracurricular responsibilities. One grad, Kevin Eastman, R’77, is the embodiment of that Spider determination, succeeding in an NBA career and now publishing his first book. 

After majoring in sociology and becoming a two-time basketball captain, his ambition led to a career packed with leadership roles as a college coach, athletics director, NBA executive with the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Clippers, trainer, consultant and motivational speaker. His new book, “Why the Best Are the Best: 25 Powerful Words That Impact, Inspire, and Define Champions” includes insights into how the best leaders and organizations achieve their success.  

After four decades of working in basketball, we’d say Eastman knows a thing or two about leadership. It’s no surprise Richmond even has an award named for Eastman, given to a hardworking men’s basketball player.  

“To me, the single most important word in all success, regardless of what industry we’re in, is the word ‘truth,’ ” Eastman said in a Richmond Times-Dispatch article. “And the reason is, if you study all successful organizations in sports or in the corporate world, they’re built on truth.”

Congratulations on tackling your latest challenge, Kevin! We’re proud to call you a Spider.