Ep 5: Jess Elis - Realities for Success in the NBA

Ep 5: Jess Elis - Realities for Success in the NBA

From Finish Strong Hoops by Dr. Chris Hart

May 30, 2025 · 47 min · Season 1 · Episode 5

About this episode

Dr. Jess Elis discusses his journey in the NBA and the realities of success in high-performance sports.

Dr. Jess Elis is the founder of Rehab Code, and the former Vice President of Player Health with the New York Knicks and before that the Director of Player Health and Performance with the Trailblazers. He is someone that has mastered both the science and art of high-performance sports medicine and leadership. In this episode, Jess shares his journey from starting with minimal network connections to leading multiple departments in the NBA. The discussion covers key moments in his career, the value of sacrifice, being realistic in your education pursuits, and avoiding the arrogance that comes with the titles. Jess also highlights the underbelly of the NBA, the real challenges professionals face in high-performance settings, and not tying your identity to your job. We wrap up discussing his company, Rehab Code, aimed at offering community-based sports rehab education and mentorship as well as his other initiatives. Rehab Code: https://www.therehabcode.com/ Jess Elis on Instagram: @physio_elis 00:00 Introduction 00:51 Journey into Professional Sports 02:02 Breaking into the Industry 04:43 Challenges and Sacrifices 12:10 The Importance of Personality in Pro Sports 16:36 Arrogance vs…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr Jess Elis

Topics covered

  • NBA
  • sports medicine
  • high-performance sports
  • career development
  • rehabilitation

Keywords

  • Rehab Code
  • player health
  • sacrifice
  • education
  • identity

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Rehab Code

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