An 11-year-old from New Jersey is quickly becoming the hardest-working agent in NBA. Erica Schaeffer represents just one player, Justin Robinson of Monmouth — and she’s doing everything she can to ensure he winds up in the NBA.
This 11-year-old is basically acting as a midmajor college player’s agent before the draft
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
The Schaeffer family went to Monmouth games over the last year, and 11-year-old Erica fell in love with watching her favorite player: Point guard Justin Robinson. The senior wished her a happy birthday in January, took photos with her, and made every game special.
Ready to watch her favorite player in the NBA, Erica’s dad told her the harsh reality of moving to the NBA. He explained there was a good chance Robinson might end up playing overseas, instead of being drafted — a reality Erica couldn’t accept given just how good the reigning MAAC Player of the Year is.
Instead of waiting to see how things panned out, Erica began writing. She sent letters to all 30 NBA general managers to explain just how good Robinson is, and why they absolutely need to draft him this year. Here’s an excerpt from the letter she wrote to Jeff Bower, GM of the Detroit Pistons.
Dear Mr. Bower,
My name is Erica Schaeffer. I am an 11-year-old basketball fan from Point Pleasant, NJ. The reason that I am writing is to tell you about a very special college senior that could make a huge difference for the Pistons next year.
His name is Justin Robinson and is his a guard for the Monmouth University Hawks. Justin recently became the all-time leading Division 1 scorer for the Hawks. He is also the reigning MAAC player of the year. I wouldn’t be surprised if he repeats this year too! Justin has broken almost every offensive record at Monmouth University, including games started. Anyone that has ever had the chance to see Justin play immediately notices the command he has on the court. His is a once in a lifetime talent that possesses the heart and soul of a warrior.
Erica’s letter continues to extol Robinson’s virtues more, discussing his high character, work ethic, and how much he’s meant to her family. Normally these letters might fall on deaf ears, but GMs around the league are taking notice of Erica’s plea.
Every letter Erica sent was personalized to the team she intended it for. These weren’t generic form letters. She even ensured the 76ers got a special call out to their time-honored phrase.
“PS: The Sixers are my father’s favorite team, and I know we’ll get season tickets if he comes there. #theprocess.”
This is a slick move, and hopefully a team will ensure Erica gets to watch Justin Robinson in the NBA. If not, at least she gave it everything — and established her future as one heck of an NBA agent.
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