Adrian Wojnarowski retires from ESPN to Lead St. Bonaventure’s Basketball Program

Adrian Wojnarowski, renowned for his impactful reporting in the NBA, has announced a significant career shift. The senior insider at ESPN, famous for breaking news with his “Woj Bombs,” will retire from sports journalism to become the general manager of the men’s basketball team at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University.

Wojnarowski shared his decision on social media, reflecting on his 37-year journey in journalism. “Thirty-seven years ago, the Hartford Courant gave me my first byline, and I never stopped chasing the thrill of it all,” he wrote. “This craft transformed my life, but I’ve decided to retire from ESPN and the news industry. I understand the commitment required in my new role and it’s an investment that I’m no longer driven to make.”

He emphasized the importance of spending his time on endeavors that hold personal meaning. “Time isn’t in endless supply,” Wojnarowski stated, expressing gratitude for the numerous mentors, colleagues, and stories that shaped his career. “No one has benefitted more than me from the belief, trust, and generosity of others.”

ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Wojnarowski’s exceptional contributions to sports journalism. “I’ve known and admired Woj since we first worked together at Yahoo! in 2007. His work ethic is second to none. He’s extraordinarily talented and fearless,” Pitaro said. He acknowledged Wojnarowski’s impact at ESPN and expressed understanding regarding his decision to slow down. “While we will miss his daily output, we completely understand his decision to make a lifestyle change,” he added. “We know he will continue to thrive in this next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.”

Wojnarowski joined ESPN in 2017 after nearly a decade at Yahoo Sports. His career also includes stints at The Record in New Jersey, The Fresno Bee, and The Waterbury Republican-American. With a stellar track record, he is a three-time National Sports Media Association’s National Sportswriter of the Year.

Now, Wojnarowski is set to return to St. Bonaventure, where he will assist the coaching staff in various critical areas, including navigating name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, managing the transfer portal, fundraising, and recruiting. “After all these years reporting on everyone’s teams, I’m headed back to my own,” he said, expressing excitement about this new chapter.

In his statement, Wojnarowski highlighted his enthusiasm for serving the university and its basketball program. “I’m thrilled and humbled to return to St. Bonaventure with an opportunity to serve the university, Coach Mark Schmidt, and our elite Atlantic 10 men’s basketball program,” he said. He acknowledged the changing landscape of college sports, stating, “I’m eager to join a championship program that combines high-level basketball, national television exposure, pro preparation, and NIL opportunities with an intimate, supportive educational environment.”

During the previous season, St. Bonaventure’s basketball team finished with a respectable 20-13 record, marking a 9-9 performance in the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Wojnarowski, who graduated from St. Bonaventure in 1991, was recognized as the Alumnus of the Year in 2019 and was inducted onto the Russell Jandoli School’s Wall of Distinguished Graduates. His transition from the world of sports reporting to a leadership role in college athletics reflects both a personal and professional evolution.

The sports community is eager to see how Wojnarowski’s extensive experience and insight will benefit St. Bonaventure’s basketball program. He is scheduled to be introduced in a press conference next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career.