“It takes teamwork to make a dream work.”
Ralph Sampson
Whether nurturing a business or working with kids, Ralph Sampson’s guiding principle is the same: give back and stand for something. This college basketball legend and retired NBA great has made a second career out of doing just that. As the founder of the Sampson Group, an organization devoted to consulting, business development, and motivational speaking, Sampson is combining his love of the game and the business of sports to provide a fresh perspective to achieving success. The Sampson Group has created a world-class system that develops the total mind, body and spirit for people who want to win in life.
Sampson credits his sound, small town upbringing in Harrisonburg, Virginia, as well as the love and support of his parents and high school basketball coach, for his success today. At a young age, Sampson learned both the importance of teamwork and leadership, as he led his high school basketball team to three state championships, becoming the most heavily-recruited prospect of his generation.
After high school, 7’4” Sampson went on to the University of Virginia where he posted an impressive 123-22 record, won a championship, and was voted National Player of the Year in three of his four seasons. He was on the cover of Sports Illustrated an unprecedented six times in a span of less than four years. All the while, Sampson handled his fame with class and dignity, never putting himself above his teammates.
Upon graduation, Sampson was selected by the Houston Rockets as the Number One pick in the NBA Draft. As a rookie, he averaged 21 points and 11 rebounds and won the NBA Rookie of the Year. A five-time All Star during his career with the Rockets, he led his team to the NBA Finals in 1986. He went on to play for the Golden State Warriors and completed his NBA career with the Sacramento Kings.
During his professional career and afterwards as a coach at James Madison University, Sampson began to realize his calling for teaching and mentoring children, beginning with the “Winners Circle,” an organization Sampson founded to help youth in various cities. Sampson trained and prepared children as both players and people. As he watched kids turn F’s into A’s, Sampson was inspired to create his trademark program: Motivation, Attitude, Plan for success [MAP].
In recent years, Sampson has continued to combine his love of basketball and business by starting a successful sportswear venture and serving as Vice President, General Manager and Head Coach of the Richmond Rhythm in International Basketball League, advancing the team to a championship. He also has served on numerous boards and charitable foundations.
Meanwhile, Sampson has continued to coach and mentor kids and youth everywhere. With over twenty-five years of basketball and business experience and expertise, Sampson has spoken to over 25,000 kids and a host of businesses and organizations nationwide, demonstrating his commitment to teamwork, his infectious passion for sports and life, and ultimately, how to become a winner.
Meet Ralph
