The 50 most powerful African Americans in sports: think you know who the real players are? Forget those who earn millions on the field. Here's our all-star list of entrepreneurs and executives who drive the sports industry

Black Enterprise, March, 2005 by Alan Hughes

Ozzie Newsome General Manager/Executive VP Baltimore Ravens Age: 48

Newsome broke barriers in 2002 when he became the NFL's first black general manager. The former Cleveland Browns player is a legend in his native Alabama, where he earned college Hall of Fame honors before ultimately making the NFL Hall of Fame. His eye for signing promising new talent resulted in a Super Bowl championship and one of the NFL's best defensive teams of all-time. Not content to rest on his laurels, Newsome already has his sights set on putting together another championship team. His motto: The right player at the right price.

Highlight Reel: The National Football League named Newsome Executive of the Year in 2001.

Ken Williams Senior Vice President/General Manager Chicago White Sox Age: 40

As the first African American general manager in Chicago sports history and the third in Major-League history, Williams is responsible for all White Sox baseball operations decisions, including all scouting efforts. Under William's leadership, the White Sox were named Organization of the Year in 2000 by Baseball America, USA Today, and Howe Sports Data. A 21-year veteran with the Sox, Williams has served as player, scout, and a special assistant to the chairman.

Highlight Reel: Under Williams' management the White Sox have gone 333-315 (.514) with three second-place and one third-place finish.

Ed Tapscott President/Chief Operating Officer Charlotte Bobcats/Charlotte Sting Age: 48

When Robert Johnson looked to create a new NBA franchise, he tapped Tapscott, a front-office veteran for teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, the Phoenix Suns, and the New York Knicks. During Tapscott's first season, the Sting placed second in the Eastern Conference and qualified for the playoffs for the sixth time in the franchise's seven-year history, one of only two teams to own that distinction. Recently, the team acquired the third overall pick in the 2004 WNBA draft without relinquishing a starter. Tapscott also heads Carolinas Sports Television (C-SET).

Highlight Reel: Tapscott is responsible for creating the Bobcats' image--from the organization's name to its logo and color scheme. He was also involved in getting the new Charlotte arena built.

Terdema Ussery President/CEO Dallas Mavericks Age: 46

In his eighth year at the helm of the Dallas Mavericks, Ussery oversees virtually all operations. In addition, he serves as mediator between the often-fined Maverick's owner Mark Cuban and the league. Ussery came to Dallas after serving as president of Nike Sports Management. Prior to that, he was commissioner of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), where he helped the league turn a profit and identified candidates suitable for team ownership.

Highlight Reel: In his first season with the Mavericks, Ussery led a successful campaign, which resulted in funding for the American Airlines Center, a project that required three years and a whopping $450 million to complete. Ussery was named BE'S Co-Executive of the Year in 2003.