Our Team
Michael Finley, born and raised in Maywood, Illinois, and attended the University of Wisconsin where he graduated with at Bachelor's of Science in Business. During his time in Wisconsin, Finley averaged 20 points per game; he finished his college career as the all-time lead scorer in Wisconsin history, with over 2,100 points.
Michael was drafted in the first round of the 1995 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. During his career, he played for the Dallas Mavericks, the San Antonio Spurs, and the Boston Celtics. He was named to the First Team All-Rookie Professional Squad following his rookie year with the Suns. He is a two-time NBA All-Star and won the 2007 NBA Championship as a member of the San Antonio Spurs. Michael's professional basketball career spanned 15 years, after retiring in 2010.
Outside of the film business, Finley is an active real estate investor and venture capitalist who also enjoys playing golf in his spare time. Michael Finley resides in Dallas, Texas with his wife and three children.
Michael Finley believes in the "Pay it Forward" theme, and is dedicated to inspiring children and their families in the areas of education, sports, counseling, and wealth of other programs. In 2003, Michael's passion for community service became a reality when he provided free basketball camps for numerous children in his hometown.
Currently, Michael is developing the flagship program of the foundation, Giving Individuals the Fundamental Tools 4 Success (G.I.F.T.4.S.). G.I.F.T.4.S families and their children are supported from third grade through the completion of high school. Academics, sports, group counseling, and social skills are major parts of the G.I.F.T.4.S. program.
In addition to his work with the foundation, Michael is an active member of the charitable world serving on a variety of boards and also volunteering his time. His most recent appointment is to the North Texas Food Bank Celebrity Council. However, his most cherished accomplishment to date is the establishment of The Michael Finley Foundation Endowed Scholarship at the University of Wisconsin-Madison for a deserving student-athlete. The Michael Finley Foundation is dedicated to the support of our young future leaders.
A love for movies and storytelling lead Michael to start his film production company, Follow Through Productions, LLC, and he has produced an enviable slate of films that includes SANCTUM, THE DAY, LUV, THE BENEFACTOR, LEE DANIELS' THE BUTLER, THE BIRTH OF A NATION, MEET THE BLACKS, SNEAKERHEADZ, FIRST TO DO IT, AMERICAN MADE and AMATEUR. In 2017, looking to build on his already impressive resume and expand his scope of projects, Michael became a partner in Argent Pictures.