Paula Portz

COO at Legends Project Development

“Your path into the sports industry—starting with the Spurs arena in 1999 and now overseeing project development at Legends—is a clear reminder that you don’t need a traditional sports background to make a major impact. Your emphasis on earning respect through hard work and learning speaks volumes about the kind of quiet leadership that gets things done.

The perspective you shared about how the industry has evolved for women, and the importance of mentorship, especially through your first boss, Bob Crittenden, is powerful. It’s refreshing to hear a straight answer like “still trying to figure that out” when it comes to work-life balance—it’s honest and relatable. And the fact that you live in a small Iowa town while managing such high-level projects? Very cool.

That contrast highlights how success in this industry doesn’t always have to look one way.

Also, “to retire” as a long-term goal? Extremely valid.” – Zara Halabu

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position ?

Oversight of Project Development Division

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

Business Management. Did not go to school for sports at all.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

I started to work on the San Antonio Spurs new arena in 1999 which was my first sports project.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

Getting respect from some of the men in the field. I had to show them that I was a hard worker, willing to learn things I didn’t know and not let them talk over me.

Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

Still trying to figure that out!

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details ?

I think good mentorship is extremely important. Having someone to learn from but also just to talk to when needed. My first boss Bob Crittenden was my ultimate mentor.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

I think more so now than when I was coming into the industry. More women need to be engaged in sports for it to become an issue we do not need to identify.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most ? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

It changes every day. being part of something so significant to a community is exciting. Right now getting a project done within an owners budget is extremely challenging

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

Stick with it, have faith in yourself and keep learning

What are your long term personal goals that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

To retire!

Any fun facts you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, how many kids, pet peeves, etc. The more the merrier!

I live in a very small town in Iowa and love to travel for fun