Just a few months after earning her master’s degree in accounting from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, former women’s basketball player Kalifa Ford is embracing a new season of life.
Ford graduated in May and now works as an accountant while also serving as an assistant girls’ basketball coach at Girls Preparatory School. After years of balancing basketball, academics and motherhood, life looks much different today.
“I’ve gotten to a point where it’s like, how soon can I get to bed?” Ford said with a laugh.
Ford also experienced the rise of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and revenue share opportunities during her college career. While these opportunities provided financial support as a student-athlete, she says the lessons she learned continue to benefit her long after graduation and have helped her build relationships throughout Chattanooga’s business community.
“It’s a great way for student-athletes to kind of figure out who they are. Chattanooga is very much a networking city, and having that network, especially with our supporters, has been helpful for me in my career,” she said.
One connection remains especially meaningful. Through a relationship built during her NIL experience, Ford and her daughter were able to take a trip to Disney.
“That definitely holds a special place in my heart,” she said.
Looking back, Ford believes that when approached with intention and a long-term mindset, NIL and revenue share opportunities for student-athletes not only provide financial benefits but also professional growth that sets them up for success.
“Student-athletes have to learn how to elevator pitch themselves. It’s a great way for them to sit down, self-reflect and then confidently talk about themselves in a different light.”
Today, Ford continues to build on the lessons she learned as a Moc while enjoying the chance to slow down and savor life beyond the final buzzer.
