The Los Angeles Lakers have appointed Dr. Vanessa Brooks as their new Head Athletic Trainer, marking another milestone in her groundbreaking career.
A member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Dr. Brooks makes history as one of the few Black women in the NBA to hold such a prestigious role, following five successful seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Dr. Brooks brings an impressive resume to the Lakers. She is the first Black woman in the NBA to be dual-certified as both an athletic trainer and a physical therapist, a distinction that sets her apart in the world of sports medicine.
Her expertise in player health and injury prevention earned her significant recognition during her time with the Thunder, and she has been active on the NBA’s Emergency Preparedness Committee, shaping protocols for the NBA, NHL, and WNBA.
A proud Zeta Phi Beta’s Eta Beta Zeta Chapter member, Dr. Brooks has been a trailblazer throughout her career. She began her professional journey with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from the University of Georgia, where she gained valuable experience across various sports.
Later, she earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Emory University, where she was honored with multiple awards for her contributions to promoting physical activity among women and girls.
In addition to her work with professional athletes, Dr. Brooks has made significant contributions to youth sports.
She served as a head athletic trainer for Atlanta Public Schools, where she founded an Athletic Trainers’ Union and managed sports injuries for student-athletes.
Before joining the NBA, she also worked at Wake Forest University and Duke University, where she co-founded a preventative injury program connecting AAU basketball teams with Duke’s sports medicine resources.
As the new head of the Lakers’ medical staff, Dr. Brooks will work closely with Dr. Leroy Sims, the team’s director of player performance, to ensure the roster remains healthy and competitive throughout the season.
Her leadership and expertise will be pivotal in shaping the future of the team’s medical and performance departments.
