“I know what it's like to feel overlooked, to fight for your worth, and to carry a chip on your shoulder. That fire made me the athlete I was — and now, it fuels the consultant I’ve become.” “Basketball gave me more than a paycheck. It gave me perspective. Now I use that experience to help others turn adversity into opportunity.”
– Marqus Blakely, Founder & CEO, 25:8 AM
WE believe that strong leadership is the key to success. That's why our team is made up of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing top-quality services to our clients. From contract negotiation and athlete representation to brand building and marketing strategy, our team has the skills and expertise to help our clients achieve their goals. Meet our team and learn more about what sets us apart.
Team
The Story
25:8 AM was founded with the goal of providing top-quality management services to professional athletes and brand partners. Our team has over 20+ years of experience in the industry, and we are committed to helping our clients achieve their goals both on and off the field. We understand that every client is unique, and we work closely with each one to develop personalized plans and strategies to help them succeed.
Position:
CEO/ FOUNDER​​
College:
University of Vermont
​​
​
The New Jersey native, is a dynamic and versatile forward known for his athleticism and tenacity. A standout at the University of Vermont. He has achieved success in various international leagues, earning multiple championships and individual accolades. Beyond the court, Blakely is dedicated to community involvement, regularly participating in charity events and basketball clinics. His inspiring journey serves as a testament to the rewards of hard work and passion in the world of basketball.
Career
2006–2010:
Attends and graduates the University of Vermont, excelling on and off the court. Wins the Kevin Roberson America East Conference Men's Basketball Player of the Year twice and the America East Defensive Player of the Year Award three times.
2010:
Undrafted in the NBA draft, joins the Los Angeles Clippers for the 2010 NBA Summer League. Signs a two-year partially guaranteed contract
2010–2011:
Joins Bakersfield Jam in the NBA D-League, showcasing talent with 17.2 points per game. Later traded to the Iowa Energy where he won a NBA D league championship coach by Nick Nurse
2011:
NBA Call up with the Houston Rockets, entering training camp.
2011–2012:
Returns to Iowa Energy, then traded to Sioux Falls Skyforce. Named NBA D-League All-Star.
2012:
Signs with B-Meg Llamados in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), averaging a double-double. Leads team to PBA Finals
2013:
Expands career to Germany with Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg.
2013–2015:
Returns to the PBA, now with San Mig Coffee Mixers. Wins two PBA championships and achieves a historic Grand Slam (4 Titles consequently)
2015–2016:
Gets recruited to play in the (KBL) Korean Basketball League with Busan KT Sonicboom.
2016:
Returns to the PBA, playing for the Star Hotshots.
2018:
Signs with TNT KaTropa in the PBA, nearly recording a triple-double in his debut.
2018–2019:
Recruited to Japan to play in the B league for Shiga Lakestars and Fukuoka Zephyr where he records a triple-double with 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists.
2019:
Joins the Blackwater Elite in the PBA, scoring a conference-high 37 points.
2020:
Signs with the Kumamoto Volters in the Japan’s B League, recording a triple-double of 24 points, 16 rebounds, and 11 assists in his first game.