CHRIS BERNARD, a former Knicks and The Players’ Tribune executive who recently co-founded athlete business strategy firm Rebrand NY, died of heart complications last Wednesday, Rebrand has confirmed to SBJ.
Bernard, 47, is survived by his wife, AMANDA, and three children.
Before starting Rebrand, where he was CEO, Bernard worked as VP/Player Development, Marketing and Team Operations for the Knicks from 2001-16 and in two roles for The Players Tribune: SVP/Athlete Relations (2016-20) and SVP/Athlete Marketing and Development (2020-23).
Bernard’s passing drew condolences from several in the NBA community, including Pelicans G CJ MCCOLLUM and Knicks coach TOM THIBODEAU. A GoFundMe for Bernard’s family started by NBPA SVP/Business Development & Basketball Activation DAN GLADSTONE had eclipsed $200,000 in donations as of Monday.
Rebrand issued the following statement:
"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our founder Chris Bernard.
Chris was a man of unwavering faith, with boundless generosity and genuine warmth. His influence and leadership in the sports industry spans decades and his passion for uplifting the sports community shaped the foundation of REBRAND NY. He dedicated his entire career to supporting athletes, empowering them to succeed both on and off the playing field. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the meaningful work he championed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife Amanda and their three beautiful children ROMAN, JUDE and CHLOE during this incredibly difficult time.
The sports industry has lost one of its greats, but his impact will endure forever. Rest in peace, Chris. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered."
