NBATA

As AAPI Heritage Month comes to a close, we celebrate the individuals whose journeys continue to inspire the next generation.

Woocheol Choung, Assistant Athletic Trainer for the made history as the first Korean athletic trainer in the …a milestone that extends far beyond the sidelines.

“Being the first ATC in the NBA from South Korea is a tremendous honor and a dream come true, made even more meaningful by the opportunity to share my culture. Inspired by the resilience of the AAPI community, I hope to face challenges with strength and serve as a positive role model for the next generation.”

Stories like Woocheol’s remind us that the path forward becomes a little clearer when someone has the courage to go first.

The standard of care, recognized by peers across the league. 🏆

Congratulations to the Minnesota Timberwolves Athletic Training Staff on being named the 2025-26 Joe O’Toole-David Craig Athletic Training Staff of the Year by the NBATA, an honor recognizing exemplary leadership, innovation, and athlete care on and off the court.

Presented during the NBATA Annual Meetings in Chicago, this award reflects the dedication and impact of a staff committed to setting the standard every day.