NBA Player Agent Henry Thomas Of CAA Sports Dies At 64

Pioneering NBA player agent Henry Thomas, who helped CAA Sports build its basketball division, died yesterday after a hard-fought battle with a neuromuscular disease. He was 64. Thomas, who counted Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Tim Hardaway and others as clients over a 30-year career, joined CAA Sports in '09. He also taught a sports law class at DePaul College of Law for 23 years. He is survived by his wife Susan, daughters Hillary and Jaye, son Ryan and sister Sharon. Funeral services will be private. Memorial donations may be made in Thomas' name to JourneyCare Foundation.

Thomas over his career was known for his "genuine decency in a cutthroat business." Wade "posted a heartfelt tribute on his Instagram page, including a photo" from the night the Heat drafted him fifth overall in June '03. The Heat yesterday before their game against the Hornets "held a moment of silence" for Thomas (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 1/28). Sources said Wade viewed Thomas as a "father figure" (Cleveland PLAIN DEALER, 1/28).