NIR Radio For June 19, 2013

Standing at seven foot, two inches tall, James Donaldson stands above the crowd in more ways than physical stature.  His stories about making the right choices, overcoming fear and self doubt, and staying resilient and goal focused in the face of tough challenges routinely bring audiences to their feet.   Audience members – from business executives to youth groups to guests at major industry conferences -- walk away standing taller, thinking more boldly, and believing in unlimited possibilities that they can make happen in their lives and work.

Donaldson is no stranger to overcoming obstacles.  Most people would be surprised to learn that he didn’t start playing basketball until he was a junior in high school. His late start in the sport didn’t stop him from becoming top player for Washington StateUniversity (’79) and earning a place among NBA All Stars in 1988.  His professional basketball career included playing time with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz.  He also played for several teams in Spain, Italy, and Greece and toured with the Harlem Globetrotters.  His dedication to excellence and discipline to practice served to set him apart and earned him a place in the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and the WSU Athletic hall of Fame.  In 2010, Donaldson was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.

After a career threatening knee injury threatened his NBA career, Donaldson established The Donaldson Clinic in 1990. Today this successful business with a 20+ year track record provides physical therapy services to recovering athletes and others seeking enhanced mobility.