Legendary ESPN basketball insider Adrian Wojnarowski has announced his retirement in a shock statement on Wednesday morning.
Wojnarowski, affectionately known as Woj, has become one of the go-to reporters for regular and reliable of basketball news.
He has worked at ESPN since 2017, having previously worked for Yahoo Sports and The Record of Bergan County in New Jersey.
The 55-year-old has also revealed he’s agreed to become the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure, his alma mater.
The role includes Name Image and Likeness allocation, recruiting and supporting Bonnies coach Mark Schmidt.
Legendary ESPN basketball insider Adrian Wojnarowski has announced his retirement
He will become the general manager of the men’s basketball program at St. Bonaventure, his alma mater
In a statement, he said: ‘I grew up the son of a factory worker two miles from ESPN’s campus and only ever dreamed of making a living as a sportswriter. Thirty-seven years ago, the Hartford Courant gave me my first byline and I never stopped chasing the thrill of it.
‘This craft transformed my life, but I’ve decided to retire from ESPN and the news industry.
‘I understand the commitment required in my role and it’s an investment that I’m no longer driven to make. Time isn’t in endless supply and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful.
‘I leave with overwhelming gratitude for countless mentors and colleagues, subjects and stories, readers and viewers. No one has benefitted more than me from the belief, trust and generosity of others.
‘The past seven years at ESPN have been a particular privilege. I’m appreciative of the company’s leadership – especially Jimmy Pitaro and Cristina Daglas – for the understanding and acceptance of my decision to make a life change.
‘After all these years reporting on everyone’s teams, I’m headed back to my own.’
Wojnarowski, affectionately known as Woj, is one of the go-to reporters inside basketball
Talking about his new role at St. Bonaventure, Wojnarowski added: ‘It is a thrill of a lifetime to be able to return to a university and community that I love in a role of service to our student-athletes, coaches and institution.
‘I am hopeful that I can bring value in a lot of areas to our basketball program and open doors for our young men’s futures in ways both professionally and personally.’
ESPN chairman Pitaro added: ‘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. He has led the industry at ESPN, and his dedication to the craft and to fans is legendary.
‘While we will miss his daily output, we completely understand his decision to make a lifestyle change and slow down a bit. We know he will continue to thrive in his next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.’
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