Adrian Wojnarowski, the former ESPN insider renowned for breaking major NBA stories, credited Kobe Bryant for significantly shaping his career in journalism.
Speaking with Carmelo Anthony on 7PM in Brooklyn, a Wave Sports + Entertainment podcast, Wojnarowski shared how his interactions with Bryant elevated his reputation in the NBA.
Wojnarowski recounted that Bryant’s willingness to engage with him publicly boosted his credibility among players, general managers, and league executives.
“Kobe was really generous with me,” Wojnarowski said. He recalled conversations with Bryant near the Staples Center’s loading dock and even moments where Bryant envisioned playing for the New York Knicks during the Lakers’ turbulent Phil Jackson era.
The journalist also highlighted Bryant’s unwavering loyalty to the Lakers, despite frustrations during his career. “He loved the Lakers and only ever really wanted to be there,” Wojnarowski explained. Bryant’s candidness and trust in him, Wojnarowski said, opened doors to deeper relationships and sources across the league.
Wojnarowski recently transitioned from ESPN to a new role as general manager at St. Bonaventure University, his alma mater. Reflecting on his decision to leave ESPN, Wojnarowski admitted it was a gradual realization.
“I just felt pulled toward St. Bonaventure and this role,” he shared. He acknowledged the growing challenges for smaller schools like St. Bonaventure to compete in a rapidly evolving collegiate sports landscape and expressed a desire to help navigate those changes.
Describing his final months at ESPN, Wojnarowski revealed he had known the 2024 NBA Draft would be his last major event. “I took photos with close friends that night,” he said. While he didn’t share his plans at the time, he knew the chapter with ESPN was closing. When informing ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro about his decision, Wojnarowski expressed gratitude for the network’s support throughout his tenure.
At St. Bonaventure, Wojnarowski has embraced his new role, blending his deep ties to the institution with a fresh sense of purpose. “This place gave me confidence and transformed my life,” he said, recalling how the school helped shape his career and personal life.
