"How about Jeff Schwartz? He recently started his own company called Excel Sports."
Maybe he’s not famous now.
But Qin Yue knows that in fifteen years, he’ll become the most powerful agent in the entire NBA.
As an agent exceptionally skilled at eloquence and helping players market their image, Schwartz’s future classic feats include marketing Anthony Bennett as a top draft pick and making all NBA management believe James Wiseman is undoubtedly the No. 2 pick in the 2020 draft...
Indeed, those NBA general managers who were once hoodwinked by Schwartz wish they could flay him afterwards.
But for the players...
Personas like Schwartz are definitely rare mentors and friends.
Moreover, although many hate Schwartz’s manipulative words, many teams still have to be grateful to him.
For example, in the future, after an irreconcilable conflict arose between the Lakers and Westbrook, Schwartz orchestrated Westbrook’s escape from Los Angeles.
Furthermore, upon learning that at the time Westbrook sought glory more than salary, Schwartz never made exorbitant demands on teams wanting him.
"What my clients want, I give them.
If they want big contracts, I strive to get them big contracts. If they want to compete for a championship with a minimum salary, I’ll immediately connect them with championship-contending teams."
This life, Qin Yue indeed plans to build his own team in the NBA in the future.
However, for now, both Rachel and Evans need time to grow.
So, shortly after Merritt introduced Schwartz to him, Qin Yue decided to interview Schwartz.
Although Schwartz is not as famous now as he will be in the future, having worked as a sports agent since 1992, he is already experienced.
Having always maintained a good relationship with Merritt, he has already established some connections in the industry.
"If I sign with you, what can you offer me?"
"I can’t take care of your daily life like those player handlers. But when you need me, I’ll always have your back."
With that, Schwartz directly handed his past successful cases to Qin Yue.
"Currently, many NBA teams wish for me to attend their trials. What are your thoughts on this?"
"Refuse, refuse them all."
"Because we only trial for the team with the number one draft pick."
No doubt, Schwartz left a great impression on Qin Yue during this interview.
Throughout the interview, Schwartz was logical and never boasted.
Additionally, from the successful cases he presented, he has already built good relationships with multiple media outlets.
For Qin Yue, who is about to enter the commercial league of the NBA, this is definitely a plus.
Then, after asking Schwartz about his business plans for his future...
Qin Yue seamlessly formed a partnership with Schwartz.
The two signed a four-year contract.
Schwartz would take 4% of Qin Yue’s player contracts as compensation.
For commercial endorsements, Schwartz would take 10% of Qin Yue’s commercial contracts as remuneration.
Overall, it’s a fair and just contract, reflecting the current equal status of player and agent.
Although Schwartz will take the NBA’s maximum regulated percentage (4%) of Qin Yue’s player contract, in fact, given Qin Yue’s current commercial value...
His commercial contract is clearly the major part.
According to industry standards, Schwartz could ask for up to 20% for commercial contract compensation.
But, unearned and undeserved, Schwartz believes...
Since Qin Yue’s current commercial value is unrelated to him, and this being their first collaboration, he doesn’t want to leave a vampire-like impression on Qin Yue.
"In the future, if I successfully elevate your commercial value, then in our next cooperation, I will demand higher commercial compensation, but that’s definitely not now." After signing a series of agreements with Qin Yue and obtaining relevant authorizations, Schwartz said.
"Ronnie was my close ally during university. Next, I plan to have him learn from you and handle my affairs during NBA games, what do you think?" Qin Yue said to Schwartz.
Hearing this, Schwartz smiled and said, "This is a good thing, your foresight shows that you are ready to enter the NBA.
After you’re drafted, not only can your friend follow me to learn, but I’ll also help him apply for a player liaison position with your team.
This way, when you travel for games or other engagements, he can prepare everything in advance."
Unlike Goodwin, who always dismisses people around the stars...
Schwartz is well aware that with changing times, every NBA star needs a few absolutely trustworthy people around them.
Since Evans is someone Qin Yue trusts, Schwartz will naturally find ways to help train Evans for Qin Yue.
"Regarding your public relations officer... will you arrange someone you trust as well?"
"I already have a candidate for a public relations officer, but she won’t graduate until next year."