As CEO of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx, Colby-Sawyer College alumnus Ethan Casson ’96 has met and worked with many dynamic leaders in professional sports. 

He recently launched the “Beyond the Game” speaker series at the college so sports executives and visionaries can share their personal journeys, insights and leadership advice with Charger student-athletes.  

Casson kicked off the series with Boston Celtics President Rich Gotham in April. 

“I’m excited to bring the ‘Beyond the Game’ speaker series to the student-athletes at my alma mater. These conversations offer a rare opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with sports executives who have shaped the industry,” said Casson.

“They’re intended to be interactive learning experiences that can influence the course of a young professional’s career.” 

As the name implies, “Beyond the Game” is designed to equip student-athletes with skills and resources they need to intentionally navigate their lives when their playing days are over. Collegiate sports shape identity, build discipline and teach resilience, but Casson said transitioning from amateur athletics to professional pursuits can present unique challenges. 

So, the series, to be held once a semester, will focus on career readiness, personal development and practical skills. Casson said the expert-led discussions will empower student-athletes to leverage the lessons of their athletic experience to thrive in any career or life path they choose. 

Colby-Sawyer Director of Athletics Jen McKillop is incredibly grateful for Casson's continued commitment to the college and its scholar-athletes.  

“‘Beyond the Game' is more than a speaker series; it’s a transformative learning opportunity,” she said. “This kind of access and mentorship is invaluable as they prepare for life after college athletics.” 

Casson earned a Bachelor of Science in sport management at Colby-Sawyer, where he also was a standout basketball player. He was inducted into Colby-Sawyer's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015 and the New England Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. 

Casson has worked in professional sports for more than 25 years. Before he became CEO of the Timberwolves and Lynx — a role he has held for nine years — he was the chief operating officer for the San Francisco 49ers.