Adrian Wojnarowski, ESPN’s senior NBA insider, has announced his appointment as the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure, a position he described as a dream opportunity. Wojnarowski is an alumnus of St. Bonaventure, having graduated in 1991, and has maintained a close relationship with the program, including recent fundraising efforts for the school’s collective.
In a statement to ESPN, Wojnarowski expressed his excitement about returning to the university and serving its student-athletes and coaches. He aims to provide significant value to the basketball program and help create opportunities for the players both professionally and personally.
Wojnarowski, who is 55, has been with ESPN since 2017, previously working at Yahoo Sports and The Record of Bergen County in New Jersey. He remarked on the bittersweet nature of leaving ESPN, expressing gratitude for his experiences at the network.
The role of a general manager in college basketball has gained prominence, especially with the increasing impact of the transfer portal on team rosters. The position will involve recruiting, managing name, image, and likeness initiatives, and supporting head coach Mark Schmidt.
St. Bonaventure’s athletic director, Bob Beretta, praised Wojnarowski’s extensive knowledge of the school and his strong network within professional and collegiate basketball, highlighting the importance of his commitment to his alma mater.
In his farewell to ESPN, Wojnarowski reflected on his journey from a factory worker’s son to a prominent sports journalist, acknowledging the many mentors and colleagues who supported him throughout his career. He conveyed his appreciation for his time at ESPN and the leadership’s understanding of his decision to pursue a new direction in life.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro commended Wojnarowski’s work ethic and talent, expressing support for his decision to step away from daily reporting as he enters this new chapter.