The man who broke so much NBA news that his scoops earned him a pithy nickname announced on Tuesday at X that he is retiring from sports journalism to become general manager of the men’s basketball program at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University.
Known simply as Woj, he unleashed a “Woj bomb” on the basketball world — a breaking news story that he reported first and accurately, with context.
Wojnarowski, 55, was hired by ESPN in 2017 after emerging as a must-read news reporter and columnist at Yahoo Sports in 2007. He previously worked at
According to the outlet, Wojnarowski makes about $7 million per year with ESPN and has three years left on his contract, meaning he would be giving up about $20 million.
His final Woj bomb was about himself.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to the university, coach and an elite Atlantic 10 men’s basketball program,” Wojnarowski said in a news release from the university. “In this era of change in college sports, I am excited to be part of a championship program that combines high-level basketball, nationally televised exposure, professional preparation and NIL opportunities with an intimate and supportive educational environment.”
The general manager role in a college sports program is becoming increasingly important in an era when name, image and likeness opportunities are at a premium. In addition to helping with fundraising and alumni engagement, Wojnarowski will work with NIL organizations and help manage the transfer portal.
Wojnarowski is a St. Bonaventure University graduate (Class of 1991) and maintains close ties to the basketball program and the Jandoli School of Communications. Wojnarowski and his wife, Amy, met as undergraduates at St. Bonaventure.
“I’m committed to sharing best practices learned from the minds and minds behind some of the NBA’s most successful franchises with members of our community and opening the door to the world for our players on and off the court,” Wojnarowski said.
St. Bonaventure University Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Bob Beretta extended a warm welcome to Wojnarowski.
“At a time of great disruption in intercollegiate athletics, this sends a strong message that St. Bonaventure University remains at the forefront of change,” Beretta said in a statement. “This is a bold move that aligns with our university’s goal to continue to grow and thrive.”
They have won three championships since 2012 and went 20-13 last season.
Wojnarowski worked at Yahoo Sports from 2007 to 2015, beginning his career as an NBA columnist and ultimately helping to launch , Yahoo’s independent NBA site, where he served as editor.
“Woj’s in-depth knowledge of St. Bonaventure and Franciscan values, combined with the deep relationships he has built in the world of professional and college basketball, make him the perfect person to fill this new role,” Beretta said. “The fact that a journalist so outstanding in this field is willing to leave a high-paying career in the media industry to serve in support of his alma mater is a testament to his love and passion for the Bonas.”
“He is extraordinarily talented and fearless. He has led the industry at ESPN and his dedication to his craft and his fans is legendary,” the ESPN chairman said on X.
“While we will miss his work every day, his decision to make a lifestyle change and slow down a bit is completely understandable. We know he will continue to thrive in his next chapter, and we offer him our gratitude and support.”
The NBA released a statement, at the end of which they jokingly acknowledged Wojnarowski’s numerous sources around the league.
“The NBA family congratulates Woj as he embarks on his next chapter,” the NBA said in a statement. “We wish him every success in his new adventure.”
“Sources familiar with the matter say his future is bright.”
