Adrian Wojnarowski, a prominent NBA newsbreaker known for his impactful reporting, announced on X that he is departing ESPN and retiring from sports journalism to take on the role of general manager for the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure University, his alma mater.
Wojnarowski, 55, garnered attention for his “Woj bombs”—exclusive scoops that he reported first and accurately, enriching the basketball community with his insights. He joined ESPN in 2017 after establishing himself as a key figure in sports journalism at Yahoo Sports beginning in 2007, and he also worked previously at the Record of Bergen County in New Jersey.
Reports suggest Wojnarowski was earning around $7 million a year at ESPN with three years remaining on his contract, amounting to a potential loss of $20 million by leaving. In contrast, the average salary for a general manager at a Division 1 university ranges from $130,020 to $172,958.
While no successor has been named yet, Shams Charania and Chris Haynes are seen as leading candidates. Charania started at Yahoo Sports under Wojnarowski, and his current contracts are set to expire soon, while Haynes recently left TNT amid the network’s legal challenges involving the NBA. ESPN’s Pat McAfee indicated that Charania might be the frontrunner for the position.
Wojnarowski expressed his excitement about the new opportunity in a statement from the university, highlighting his desire to contribute to the basketball program amidst the evolving landscape of college sports. He mentioned the importance of a focused educational environment combined with high-level basketball and opportunities for players.
The role of general manager has grown increasingly significant in light of name, image, and likeness opportunities. Wojnarowski will be involved in fundraising, building alumni relations, and managing NIL collectives and the transfer portal.
An alumnus of St. Bonaventure, Wojnarowski has a long-standing connection to the university’s basketball program and its communication school. He and his wife met during their time as undergraduates there.
Bob Beretta, vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics at St. Bonaventure, welcomed Wojnarowski, emphasizing the importance of this appointment during a turbulent time for college athletics. The school has made three NCAA Tournament appearances since 2012 and finished last season with a 20-13 record.
Wojnarowski previously worked at Yahoo Sports as an NBA columnist and later helped launch the site’s NBA-specific platform, the Vertical. Beretta noted that Wojnarowski’s combination of knowledge about St. Bonaventure and established relationships in basketball makes him the ideal candidate for the position.
Jimmy Pitaro, chairman at ESPN, praised Wojnarowski’s work ethic and talent, understanding his desire to transition to a new lifestyle while expressing gratitude for his contributions to the industry.
The NBA also issued a congratulatory message, acknowledging Wojnarowski’s integral role within the league and playfully hinting at his strong network of sources.