Passion . Purpose . Principle
More Than A Game. A way To Live.
James Donaldson
About James Donaldson
James Donaldson is a former NBA All-Star, author, speaker, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate whose life journey extends far beyond the basketball court.
At 7’2”, James played 14 seasons in the NBA, including time with the Seattle SuperSonics, San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He was selected to the 1988 NBA All-Star Team while playing for Dallas. He also played professionally in Europe.
A graduate of Washington State University, James went on to build a successful life beyond basketball, including founding and operating The Donaldson Clinic. He has also remained deeply involved in community service and mentoring.
James’ journey has also given him a powerful perspective on resilience, purpose, and the importance of asking for help. After experiencing a difficult period in his life, he became an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention, speaking to organizations, schools, and young people about hope, resilience, and the importance of building a support system.
James is the author of Standing Above the Crowd and Celebrating Your Gift of Life, sharing lessons from his experiences and encouraging others to recognize their own potential and value.
His story embodies what it means to be a 3P Champion — using your Passion to pursue what matters, finding Purpose through life’s experiences, and living with Principle by using your platform and journey to make a difference in the lives of others.
James Donaldson’s story is a reminder that the greatest measure of success isn’t simply what you accomplish — it’s what you do with your experiences and how you use them to impact others.
Career & Accomplishments
NBA Career: James Donaldson played 14 seasons in the NBA and was selected to the 1988 NBA All-Star Team while playing for the Dallas Mavericks.
Seattle SuperSonics: James spent eight seasons with the Seattle SuperSonics, becoming a respected center and an important part of the team’s success.
Education: James graduated from Washington State University, where he played college basketball before beginning his professional career.
Beyond Basketball: Following his NBA career, James became an author, speaker, entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Author: James has written Standing Above the Crowd and Celebrating Your Gift of Life, sharing lessons from his experiences and encouraging others to recognize their own potential.
Passion-Purpose-Principle
PASSION
James’s passion for basketball opened the door to a remarkable professional career, but his passion for people and helping others has continued long after his playing days.
PURPOSE
James has found purpose in using his experiences to encourage others, particularly young people, to recognize their value, overcome challenges, and understand that their story can make a difference.
PRINCIPLE
James believes in giving back, serving others, and using his platform to make a positive impact. His work in mental health awareness and suicide prevention reflects his commitment to helping others and making a difference beyond the basketball court.
Key Lessons from James
• Success is bigger than basketball.
A professional career can open doors, but the impact you make on other people can become an even more meaningful part of your legacy.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
James has used his own experiences to encourage others to talk openly about mental health and seek support when they need it.
• Find a way to give back.
Your talents, experiences, and platform can be used to help others and make a difference in your community.
• Live with Passion, Purpose, and Principle.
Pursue what you love, understand why it matters, and use your values to guide how you live and serve others.