Adrian Wojnarowski changed the news landscape in how NBA trades and player movements were reported. In some cases, players learned of their new teams via his signature "Woj Bombs".
Veteran sports insider Adrian Wojnarowski dropped the biggest ‘Woj Bomb’ of them all.
In an unexpected move that sent shockwaves across the sports media world, Wojnarowski announced his retirement thus ending his seven-year stay at sports network ESPN and 37 years total as a reporter.
One of the most turned-to insiders and news breakers in the NBA, ‘Woj’ will embark on a new journey as the general manager of the men’s basketball program at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure, according to Adam Schefter.
[ALSO READ: #WojBomb no more: Adrian Wojnarowski retires from journalism to join alma mater as basketball general manager]
"I understand the commitment required in my role and it's an investment that I'm no longer driven to make," Wojnarowski wrote in a statement posted on X (formerly as Twitter). "Time isn't in endless supply and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful."
Since the 2000s, the 55-year-old emerged as a pioneer on social media when it came to NBA trades, free agent signings, and other major developments especially during high-profile events like the NBA Draft.
With that, the NBA community delivered their tributes and reactions on Woj’s retirement.
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Isaac Okoro, who was the last player to be the subject of a ‘Woj Bomb,’ paid tribute to the long-time sports journalist.
"Last Woj bomb," Okoro wrote alongside a shrugging emoji following Wojnarowski's sudden decision.
Wojnarowski reported on Okoro's three-year, $38 million extension with the Cavaliers four days before announcing his retirement.
The NBA also took time to give Woj his flowers.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro has nothing but praise for his former employee, describing Woj’s work ethic as ‘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. We know he will continue to thrive in this next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.”
Friends, peers and colleagues also wished Wojnarowki the best as he pivots to a different career path.
“Devastated. What a loss for us here at ESPN. The absolute best in the business, my man. I’m gonna miss you, buddy,” basketball journalist Stephen A. Smith posted in a tweet.
“What a statement. What a career. Legend,” NFL senior insider Adam Schefter said.
“I've been fortunate to spend more than 20 years in this business working with reams of talented people. Adrian Wojnarowski is the best. Period. A peerless reporter. A gifted wordsmith. A storyteller nonpareil. He is Jim Brown and Barry Sanders, leaving at the apex of his game,” MLB senior inside Jeff Passan reacted.
Throughout his career, Wojnarowski helped pave the way for the emergence of the "insider" role in sports journalism while developing a reputation for his incomparable ruthlessness in pursuit of excellence.