Former NBA player and entrepreneur Dr. Vladimir Stepania has added another milestone to his distinguished career by earning a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Entrepreneurship from Anaheim University.

A native of Georgia, Dr. Stepania enjoyed a successful professional basketball career from 1995 to 2004. After beginning his career with Slovan in Slovenia and later starring for Union Olimpija Ljubljana, he was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics with the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 1998 NBA Draft, becoming the first Georgian player to compete in the NBA. During his six NBA seasons, he played for the Seattle SuperSonics, New Jersey Nets, Miami Heat, and Portland Trail Blazers, appearing in 270 regular-season games.

Rather than ending his pursuit of excellence after retiring from professional basketball, Dr. Stepania embarked on a new chapter focused on education, international service, and entrepreneurship.

He earned a master’s degree from New York University and completed postgraduate studies at the University of Washington before serving in positions with the United Nations, the NBA, and the investment banking industry. Today, he is the owner of a successful long-term care home healthcare business in Seattle, Washington.

Dr. Stepania said his decision to pursue a doctorate at Anaheim University came through the University’s partnership with the National Basketball Retired Players Association (NBRPA). “It fit my schedule and expectations,” he said.

Anaheim University’s fully online DBA program enabled him to continue leading his business while pursuing doctoral research. “The online experience is very convenient,” he said. “The biggest challenge was managing my professional life while studying.”

Among his favorite memories at Anaheim University was collaborating on scholarly research with Professor Dr. Wang.

“My favorite memory was when I published an article with Dr. Wang. He is a great professor.”

Although he already owned his own business before beginning the program, Dr. Stepania believes the knowledge, discipline, and research skills he gained through the DBA have strengthened his effectiveness as an entrepreneur.

“I own my business…the experience, discipline, and knowledge definitely contributed toward my overall success.”

He encourages other experienced professionals to consider pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration.

“I believe it’s a great tool for professionals. I would happily recommend it.”

Dr. Stepania’s journey—from pioneering Georgian NBA player to entrepreneur, business leader, and Anaheim University doctoral graduate—demonstrates that excellence was not confined to the basketball court. His lifelong commitment to learning serves as an inspiration to professionals seeking to build successful second careers through education, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

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