ASU Law student pursues sports law dreams with LLM degree

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2025 graduates.

Originally from Fremont, California, Jasmin Alisha Dunston says she chose ASU Law for its nationally recognized Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business program.

But her journey toward sports law and business started way before coming to ASU.

With a background as a student-athlete and a bachelor's, master’s and Juris Doctor already under her belt, Dunston saw the Master of Laws (LLM) program at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law as a powerful next step toward her goal of becoming a general counsel for a major sports organization.

Read on to learn more about her experience at ASU and what she sees for herself going forward.

Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: My path to sports law wasn't defined by a single "aha" moment. It was more of a natural evolution of two passions I inherited from my parents.

My love for baseball and sports came from my dad, while my strong sense of faith, fairness and justice came from my mom. Combining these influences felt inevitable. The sports law field represents a perfect merger of these two worlds: my passion for athletics and my commitment to doing what's right.

It wasn't so much about discovering this path as it was about recognizing that these two parts of my life were always meant to come together.

Question: What’s something you learned while at ASU Law — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

Answer: What's fascinating about my experience at ASU Law is how it transformed my existing knowledge into something much deeper. While my time in Major League Baseball gave me practical experience, the program helped me see the intricate layers behind sports law and business that I hadn't fully appreciated before.

Thus, it wasn't so much about surprising new information, but rather about gaining a richer, more nuanced understanding of the field. The program took what I knew and added crucial depth

Question: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

Answer: Professor Don Gibson had an extraordinary impact on my learning experience at ASU. His unique perspective, shaped by eight years of experience with Major League Baseball, brought our classroom discussions to life.

As someone who served as both an attorney in the commissioner's office and later as senior vice president/acting president of Major League Baseball properties, he could break down complex legal issues with real-world context that was invaluable. What made his lessons particularly compelling was how he drew from his diverse experience, from managing MLB's licensing and corporate sponsorships to leading the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame's $103 million development project.

His ability to bridge the gap between legal theory and practical application in sports business was exceptional. Beyond just teaching the law, he shared insights from his time in the sports business industry that you simply can't find in textbooks. His firsthand experience with major sports organizations made every discussion not just educational but deeply relevant to my career trajectory.

Question: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

Answer: Keep a strict schedule — it's absolutely essential. As someone who balanced both work and school simultaneously, I can tell you it's challenging but completely doable with the right discipline.

The key is creating a realistic plan and sticking to it religiously. Time management isn't just about organizing your day; it's about committing to your goals even when things get tough. Remember, it's not how you start but how you finish. Stay focused, remain disciplined and trust in God’s plan.

Question: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

Answer: I found my perfect study balance between two fifth-floor locations: the quiet study room for focus and the patio deck for sunshine-filled study sessions.

Question: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

Answer: I would dedicate the $40 million to advancing women in sports, focusing on both athletic participation and professional development. The goal would be to create more opportunities for women at every level — from athletes on the field to executives in the boardroom. It's about being not just an ally, but an active force in creating positive change for women in sports.

Question: Highlight an interesting moment, story or accomplishment while at ASU Law.

Answer: My greatest takeaway from ASU Law wasn't a single moment, but rather the extraordinary community I found there. The caliber of people I met in such a short time span speaks volumes about the school's ability to attract exceptional talent. From the dedicated faculty to the supportive staff who went above and beyond, to my fellow students who brought diverse perspectives and experiences, each person contributed to creating an incredibly welcoming and stimulating environment.

Walking onto campus always energized me, knowing I'd engage with such remarkable individuals. It's a testament to ASU Law's culture that they've built not just an educational institution, but a true community of forward-thinking legal professionals.

Written by Crystal Jimenez