by Tony O. Lawson
Black-owned sports agencies are helping shape the future of athlete representation.
They’re negotiating record-breaking deals, advocating for players’ rights, and building firms that compete with the industry’s biggest names.
In this first volume, we spotlight agency owners whose leadership is making an impact on and off the field.
1. Rich Paul – Klutch Sports Group
Rich Paul founded Klutch Sports in 2012 and quickly became one of the most powerful agents in professional sports. He has redefined modern representation through deals for LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Draymond Green. Klutch has expanded into the NFL and MLB and partnered with United Talent Agency to grow its influence across professional sports.
2. C. Lamont Smith – All Pro Sports and Entertainment (APSE)
C. Lamont Smith made history in 1987 by founding APSE, becoming one of the first Black agents in NFL representation. Over the years, he has guided multiple Pro Bowl players to lucrative contracts and endorsements. His notable clients include Eddie George (six-year, $42M contract), Jerome Bettis (six-year, $30M extension), and Trevor Pryce (seven-year, $70 M deal), along with stars like Barry Sanders and Willie Roaf.
3. Adisa Bakari – The Sports & Entertainment Group (TSEG)
Adisa Bakari leads TSEG with a focus on NFL athletes, especially those from HBCUs. He’s represented stars like Le’Veon Bell, Tyrod Taylor, Matt Forte, and Maurice Jones‑Drew. Under his leadership, TSEG represented five of the 32 HBCU players on NFL rosters in the 2016 season—more than any other agency. The firm is also known for offering comprehensive support—combining legal, financial, and lifestyle services to prepare athletes for long-term success
4. Roger Montgomery – Montgomery Sports Group
Roger Montgomery, founder of Montgomery Sports Group, transitioned from professional basketball to representation after co-founding Momentum Sports Management in 1999. He’s known for guiding undrafted talents like Maurice Evans, Desmond Mason, and Jeremy Lin into NBA success. His agency emphasizes helping athletes navigate pivotal career transitions, balancing contract negotiation with brand and personal development.
5. Cicero Leak – TLS Sports
Cicero Leak founded TLS Sports to serve athletes, coaches, and NIL talent across basketball, football, and track & field. The agency stands out for integrating public relations and branding support into its core services, helping clients build platforms beyond the game.
6. Torrel Harris – Unique Sports Management International (USMI)
Torrel Harris serves as Chairman of USMI, a boutique agency known for offering comprehensive lifestyle services—ranging from contract negotiations and financial planning to community engagement and endorsement deals with brands like Oakley and Nike. A veteran in athlete management, Harris has represented several NBA players, including his son, Tobias Harris.
7. Joby Branion – Vanguard Sports Group
Joby Branion launched Vanguard Sports in 2014 with a mission to build trust-based, long-term partnerships. He’s represented elite NFL players like Von Miller and Eric Kendricks, and the agency offers a holistic model focused on financial planning, post-career transition, and family legacy.
8. Rasheeda Liberty – Lady Lib Sports & Entertainment
Rasheeda Liberty leads Lady Lib Sports, a firm that centers the athlete’s full journey—from pre-draft development to post-retirement strategy. Known for her close-knit client relationships and focus on personal growth, she is among the few Black women leading a football agency.
9. William Sykes, Hasson Massenburg & Khalil Woodridge – Reliance Sports
Reliance Sports was launched in 2020 by William Sykes, alongside Hasson Massenburg and Khalil Woodridge. The firm offers athlete representation that prioritizes personal connections and long-term support, pledging to create ongoing value for clients both on and off the field.
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