Adrian Wojnarowski, a well-known NBA insider at ESPN, is taking on a new role. He will be the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure University. This news was confirmed by Wojnarowski himself in an interview with ESPN.
Wojnarowski is not just any sports journalist; he is a proud alumnus of St. Bonaventure, graduating in 1991. He has a deep connection with the school and has actively supported its basketball program in recent years. His work as a fundraiser for the school’s collective shows his commitment to the university.
In his own words, Wojnarowski expressed his excitement: “It is a thrill of a lifetime to return to a university and community that I love. I hope to bring value to our basketball program and help our young men succeed both professionally and personally.”
At 55 years old, Wojnarowski has had a remarkable career. He joined ESPN in 2017 after working at Yahoo Sports and The Record of Bergen County in New Jersey. He described his time at ESPN as a “dream job” and expressed gratitude for the experiences he gained there.
The role of a general manager in college basketball has become increasingly important. With the rise of the transfer portal, teams often see significant roster changes. The GM’s responsibilities include managing name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, recruiting new talent, and supporting the head coach, Mark Schmidt.
St. Bonaventure’s athletic director, Bob Beretta, praised Wojnarowski, saying, “He combines his knowledge of St. Bonaventure with a vast network in basketball. His willingness to leave a lucrative media career for this role shows his passion for Bona’s.”
Wojnarowski shared his journey on social media, reflecting on his humble beginnings. He grew up just two miles from ESPN’s campus, the son of a factory worker. He started his career 37 years ago at the Hartford Courant, and his love for sports writing has only grown since then.
He acknowledged the commitment required for his new role, stating, “Time isn’t in endless supply, and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful.” This decision marks a significant shift in his life, as he steps away from the fast-paced world of sports journalism.
Wojnarowski expressed gratitude for the mentors and colleagues who supported him throughout his career. He emphasized that he has benefited greatly from the trust and generosity of others. His time at ESPN was particularly special, and he thanked the leadership, including ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro and executive editor Cristina Daglas, for their understanding of his decision.
Pitaro also shared his admiration for Wojnarowski, stating, “His work ethic is unmatched. He has led the industry at ESPN, and while we will miss him, we support his decision to slow down and focus on what matters most.”
As Wojnarowski embarks on this new chapter, he is excited to return to his roots and contribute to the success of St. Bonaventure’s basketball program. His journey from a local sportswriter to a leading NBA insider is inspiring, and now he aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of young athletes.
In conclusion, Adrian Wojnarowski’s transition from ESPN to St. Bonaventure is a testament to his dedication to his alma mater. His experience and passion for basketball will undoubtedly benefit the program and its student-athletes. This new role is not just a job for Wojnarowski; it is a chance to give back to the community that shaped him.
