Adrian Wojnarowski, a senior NBA insider for ESPN, has announced his decision to become the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure. Wojnarowski, an alumnus of the university, expressed his excitement about returning to a community he cares for deeply. He has had a longstanding connection with the program, especially as a fundraiser for its collective in recent years. Wojnarowski graduated from St. Bonaventure in 1991 and is recognized as a distinguished alumnus of the Jandoli School of Communication.
In a statement, Wojnarowski described this opportunity as a “thrill of a lifetime,” highlighting his desire to support student-athletes, coaches, and the institution. He aims to contribute positively to the basketball program while helping young men navigate their futures both professionally and personally.
At 55, Wojnarowski has been with ESPN since 2017, having previously worked at Yahoo Sports and The Record of Bergen County in New Jersey. He reflects on his time at ESPN as a dream job, expressing gratitude for the experiences he had there.
The role of general manager in college basketball has gained traction in recent years due to the impact of the transfer portal on team rosters. Responsibilities for this position include managing name, image, and likeness agreements, recruiting efforts, and providing support to the Bonnies’ head coach, Mark Schmidt.
St. Bonaventure’s athletic director, Bob Beretta, praised Wojnarowski as an ideal fit for the role, citing his extensive knowledge of the university and his broad network in the worlds of professional and collegiate basketball. His willingness to step away from a prominent media career underscores his passion for his alma mater.
Wojnarowski shared personal reflections on social media, recounting his journey from the son of a factory worker to a recognized sportswriter. He announced his retirement from ESPN and the news industry, stating a desire to focus his time on more personally meaningful pursuits.
He expressed immense gratitude for the mentors, colleagues, and stories that shaped his career, emphasizing the privilege he felt during his seven years at ESPN. Wojnarowski thanked the organization’s leadership for their understanding of his decision to transition to this new path.
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro acknowledged Wojnarowski’s extraordinary talent and work ethic, expressing support for his lifestyle change while recognizing the impact of his work within the industry.