The energy of an MSU All – American will once again be present on campus this June. Gregory Kelser will deliver the keynote address of the 2026 Entrepreneur Leadership Camp at MSU Broad College of Business June 22-25.
To the high school juniors and seniors in audience, he will be known as a legendary broadcaster and a former NBA first-round pick. To the university, he will always be "Special K," the co-captain who flew high alongside Magic Johnson to bring MSU its historic 1979 NCAA Championship title. He won’t be here to talk about fast breaks or championship rings, but how he has successfully applied his All-American mindset to his life, career and philanthropic efforts.
“We are extremely honored and excited to have Mr. Kelser deliver the keynote address to young aspiring entrepreneurs,” says Marquis Taylor, MBP assistant director for Strategic Partnerships, Alumni and Employer Relations. “This year marks the 5th anniversary of our camp, which deserves the special message and presence of an All-American Spartan who has accomplished so much in his personal and professional life.”
The All-American Mindset
Turns out the grueling practices, film studies, and late-night discipline under Coach Jud Heathcote weren't just about winning the 1979 National Championship but were a masterclass in how to plan and execute. “My days as an athlete has taught me many things that were transferable once my playing days were over and I entered into the realm of entrepreneurship,” Kelser explains. “First you learn that there are going to be ups and downs, good days and bad, and you must keep your balance in both instances. Keeping a sharp focus on your studied plan is essential.” Kelser’s address will undoubtedly bridge the world of championship sports and visionary business.
Kelser acknowledges that no one wins a championship alone, similarly no one builds successful businesses alone. “Business teammates don't have to all think alike. In fact, it's probably best that they don't,” Kelser explains. “The thing that needs to be consistent is the goal and determination to achieve it.” He notes that in addition to teammates in business, playbooks are also as vital in business as they are in sports. “In business, your playbook is your set of principles. This sets the tone for how you will manage your team and program on a daily basis. Your playbook is your philosophy. It sets the expectations and acknowledges the things are not negotiable. Principles are not to be compromised.”
Blueprint for Young Entrepreneurs
“The high school camp allows participants to learn entrepreneurial concepts and then to
immediately try them out in a safe, hands-on environment, supported by mentors. We
want every student to leave with more confidence in their creativity and their ability to
take new ideas and turn them into innovations for existing or new businesses,” said
Laurel Oftstein senior director of the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship &
Innovation. “Kelser’s perspective will show students how resilience and an
entrepreneurial mindset create real-world opportunity.”
Kelser anticipates the most important message he will want to relay to the campers is this: "As soon as you are able as an entrepreneur, it's important to reach back and help someone who was once in your shoes.” Kelser continues, “Just think of all the people who helped you. Those people that are forever unforgettable for the impact they've had on your life. Now go and become an Unforgettable for the role that you will play in someone else's journey.” It is clear that the All-American spirit is alive and well and will be successfully transferred into the minds of MSU’s future business leaders.
Kesler’s Keynote Address is set to take place on June 25 at 2 p.m. in the MSU Broad College of Business.