GIANINA (THOMPSON) CASANOVA

I’ve built my career around storytelling in communications, publicity and editorial writing across sports and entertainment. My work has spanned some of the world’s most recognizable names, including Netflix, ESPN, Nike Inc., and leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, as well as publications such as InStyle, Glamour, and Teen Vogue and universities like Hampton and Old Dominion. I’ve always been drawn to the why behind a project — not just the who or the cool factor. Whether I’m helping launch a series, shape a campaign, or define a voice, I focus on uncovering the deeper story: what it means, why it matters, and how it connects to people in a lasting way.

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At Netflix, I lead communications for our nonfiction portfolio — spanning everything from documentaries, docuseries, and stand-up specials to live global events (WWE Raw, Squid Game: The Challenge, NFL on Christmas, Simone Biles Rising, Love is Blind, The Golden Ticket, American Manhunt, Netflix is a Joke Festival). I shape narratives and craft campaigns that spark global conversation, elevate quality storytelling, and inspire connection with audiences through impact-driven moments.

 

Beyond my day-to-day work, I also serve on the Board of Directors for The Skatepark Project, founded by Tony Hawk. Through that role, I help advance the foundation’s mission to build safe, inclusive public skateparks and expand access to spaces where young people can find community, confidence, and creative expression through skateboarding.

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Before that, I served as Head of Communications for The SpringHill Company, the media venture founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter. There, I oversaw communications and publicity strategies for projects spanning sports, entertainment, and social impact — from Uninterrupted's The Shop and Space Jam: A New Legacy to House Party, Naomi Osaka, Neymar: The Perfect Chaos, Hustle, and more.

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Earlier in my career, I managed communications, media relations and influencer programs at Nike Inc.’s Converse brand, where I helped re-energize its presence in basketball, skateboarding and street culture (ie Tyler the Creator, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Alexis Sablone, Natasha Cloud).

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At ESPN, I led media-relations and award efforts across the NBA and MLB, spotlighting our executives and history-making voices like Jessica Mendoza and Doris Burke alongside fan favorites Paul Pierce, Jalen Rose, and Jeff Van Gundy.

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As a journalist, I’ve explored the intersection and evolution of entertainment and sports impact on culture. My on-camera and digital interviews have featured Viola Davis, Kristen Bell, Gabrielle Union, LL Cool J, French Montana, Chris Paul, the casts of Scandal and Empire, and executives from Beats by Dre, Roc Nation, and CoverGirl.

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I’ve also worked with Galvanize — the leadership platform founded by FOX Sports broadcaster Laura Okmin — conducting on-camera interviews with NFL rookies as they began their professional journeys, including first-round draft picks Daniel Jones (Giants), Josh Allen (Jaguars), and Jerry Tillery (Chargers).

 

I've been personally featured in article and industry lists in Forbes, Essence, Black Enterprise, Axios and others spotlighting voices driving creative impact and helping shape the new era of entertainment, sports and culture.