From NBA Star, to Philanthropist, to Premier Basketball League Standout?

CHICAGO, Aug. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- With the impending NBA lock out approaching, the Premier Basketball League has been focused on the upcoming season. Brij Desai, PBL President and CEO, shared the league mission, a night of charity, and a contract to play in the 2012 PBL season with one NBA stand-out this past Friday evening.

Chicago native and Miami Heat All-Star Dwyane Wade held his Fourth Annual Wade's World Weekend benefiting the Wade's World Foundation and several local Chicago charities. This invite only, star studded event focused on raising much needed funds for local charities inspiring and educating children.

"It was an absolute honor being invited to such an amazing evening of philanthropy. The Premier Basketball League is a stand out supporter of community involvement, and it inspires our entire leadership team seeing what Dwyane is doing for kids," commented Desai.

Giving back to the Chicago community is not the only thing Desai was able to accomplish for the PBL and partner foundations this weekend. Desai personally presented a 2012 Premier Basketball League contract worth seven figures to Wade for the upcoming season beginning this January and ending in April. On the heals of a successful "NBA Locked-Out Draft" this summer, the PBL has already been in contact negotiations with two additional NBA players and their agents.

"Wade received the highest number of votes in our Locked-Out Draft this summer. Our fans have spoken and I am honored to have personally presented Dwyane with a contract for the 2012 season," continued Desai. "It's not everyday that a Chicago native has so much impact on their home town all the way from Miami. With our new league initiatives, regional play model, and NBA Locked-Out player contracts competitive with overseas leagues, we want to give Dwyane Wade the opportunity to continue giving back to his fan base right here in the United States this upcoming season."

Desai also had the opportunity to talk with Wade's agent Henry Thomas, as well as present the official PBL promotional kit with a copy of the first game of the 2011 PBL Finals in Rochester.

"Every major player in the NBA is being approached by multiple leagues around the world. We are excited to be receiving so much attention and positive feedback from the NBA players and agents that we are in talks with now," concluded Desai.

With a new regional play model for the 2012 season, the PBL is growing quickly. Already adding 6 teams to the 2012 season roster, the PBL has plans on a September announcement of two additional teams for the upcoming season. Each team is firmly committed to their respective communities and the fan base across the nation.

For more information on the Premier Basketball League and NBA Locked-Out player contract including a picture of Desai presenting the contract to Dwyane Wade please visit www.ThePBL.com or contact Chris Foltz, Vice-President of League Development at [email protected].

SOURCE Premier Basketball League (PBL)