At age 55, Adrian Wojnarowski has culminated his career in the news world after decades of reporting on basketball and other sports. He has become one of the most renowned journalists in the business, earning the trust of players, agents, and executives who confided in him.
Having worked for ESPN since 2017, Wojnarowski has decided to move on in his career. “It is a thrill of a lifetime to return to a university and community that I love in a role of service to our student-athletes, coaches, and institution,” he shared with ESPN, announcing his new role as the general manager for his alma mater, St. Bonaventure.
“I hope to bring value in many areas to our basketball program and open doors for our young men’s futures both professionally and personally,” he added last week. “I am retiring from a dream job at ESPN and am incredibly grateful for my time and experiences with the World Wide Leader.”
BREAKING: Shams Charania is being pursued by ESPN and NBC after Woj’s retirement announcement, h/t @Complex.
Shams free agency heating up 👀 pic.twitter.com/h17CzvQQV7
— NBA News (@Nbanews109) September 19, 2024
Now the question remains, who will replace Woj and step into the spotlight where his shadow lingers? Reports suggest that ESPN’s MLB insider Jeff Passan could switch beats to cover the NBA, although the channel already has other insiders on staff.
While Passan is a popular choice, other options like Ramona Shelburne, Brian Windhorst, and Tim Bontemps are considered. However, Wojnarowski’s former mentee, Shams Charania, is emerging as a top candidate for the position.
The Athletic’s reporter is a strong contender due to the respect he has garnered in his young career in the news industry. ESPN declined to comment until a decision is made.
“We’re not surprised by the interest in Shams, whose NBA coverage sets the pace,” said Steven Ginsberg, executive editor of The Athletic. “We’re proud to have him with us and committed to his future at The Athletic.”
Ex-ESPN Adrian Wojnarowski commits to achieving greatness at St. Bonaventure despite retirement
Although Woj has transitioned to the role of general manager for his alma mater’s sports program, he emphasizes that this is not retirement for him. He is determined to give his best to Bonaventure.
“I retired from ESPN and the news industry…,” Adrian said. “but this is no retirement job for me. I am still driven. I am still relentless. I know what it is to compete at a high level and that is why I am here. That is why we are here. To compete, to win, and to do it the Bonaventure way.”
The school’s vice president and director of athletics, Bob Beretta, is optimistic about the investment in Wojnarowski, expecting significant returns through his hard work and connections.
“Make no mistake, this is a big, bold move,” Beretta stated. “Adding the preeminent basketball journalist of our time, with his strong global network, is a clear example of that.”
