The evening will begin with a presentation featuring Wright as part of the Zapara School of Business Speaker Series at 5 p.m. at the La Sierra University Church. Wright will share insights from his personal and professional journey-from his time as a student-athlete at La Sierra University playing for the Golden Eagles to his leadership role in the National Basketball Association.

Following the speaker series, festivities will continue at the La Sierra University Alumni Pavilion where La Sierra's Golden Eagles men's basketball team will tip off at 7:30 p.m. against Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. At halftime, the university will formally retire Wright's jersey in a tribute to his accomplishments and enduring impact on the sport.

The program will include a performance by the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Pathfinders drum corps comprised of youth from several local Seventh-day Adventist churches. The first 100 guests to attend the game will receive a commemorative Brian Wright t-shirt.

"Brian Wright represents the very best of La Sierra University-excellence, integrity, and leadership at the highest level," said Zapara School of Business Dean John Thomas. "His story is a powerful example of how education, character, and perseverance can open doors on a global stage."

Wright's career in professional basketball has included roles in scouting, basketball operations, and executive leadership, culminating in his current position as general manager of the San Antonio Spurs.

Wright moved into the general manager's role in July 2019 after three seasons as the Spurs' assistant general manager. Prior to that, he served in roles with the Detroit Pistons and the Orlando Magic. He began his trajectory in sports management as a summer intern with the Magic in 2006.

Wright attended Takoma Academy in Maryland before enrolling at La Sierra University. He began working toward a career in pharmacy before transferring into La Sierra's business program, graduating with a business degree in 2004. He was honored by the Riverside Sport Hall of Fame in 2003 and 2004 for his performances as a guard with the Golden Eagles basketball team.

Wright earned a master's in sports business management from the DeVos Sports Business Management Program at the University of Central Florida.

In 2014 he was recognized during La Sierra's alumni weekend with a Rising Star award from the Zapara School of Business. Wright was also among 100 La Sierra University Presidential Awardees recognized during the university's centennial celebration at the Riverside Convention Center in October 2022. He has returned to La Sierra several times to give student colloquium presentations at the business school.

Jersey Retirement Celebration, Thursday, February 12:

Zapara School of Business Speaker Series featuring Brian Wright:

• 5 p.m., La Sierra University Church, 4937 Sierra Vista Ave. Riverside, CA 92505.

Golden Eagles Jersey Retirement Celebration-Youth Drum Corps Performance:

• 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.) La Sierra University Alumni Pavillion, 4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside, CA 92505.

• Admission: $12 general admission; children age 12 and under are free.

• Contact: For further information, call 951-785-2064 or email [email protected] .