USA Basketball is making a major structural shift in its leadership for the 2028 Olympic cycle by appointing Sue Bird as the managing director of the USA women’s national basketball team, as confirmed by multiple sources. The 44-year-old Bird, who has earned five Olympic gold medals and four FIBA World Cup titles during her illustrious career with Team USA, will take on a pivotal role, overseeing player and coaching staff selections for both the Olympic and World Cup teams.
According to The Athletic, this change marks a significant departure from the traditional structure, where a selection committee was responsible for choosing the rosters. Bird’s appointment mirrors the role held by Grant Hill for the USA men’s national team, which entails leading the team’s management with her extensive experience and established reputation in the basketball world. This new direction comes after a narrow escape by the USA women’s team in Paris and reflects USA Basketball’s desire to streamline leadership while ensuring that top-tier players and coaches are selected for major international competitions.
In Reuters’ coverage, it was highlighted that Bird will work closely with Briana Weiss, who has been in charge of the women’s national team since 2021. Bird’s presence in the role is expected to have a significant impact on both the strategic and morale-building aspects of the program, especially with the growing pool of young, talented players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers, who are eager to make their mark in the 2028 Olympics.
USA Basketball’s aim is not only to secure a successful team for the 2028 Olympics but also to ensure that the financial and marketing opportunities for women in the sport continue to expand. A crucial aspect of Bird’s new role will be her ability to connect with players and make them feel supported and motivated to participate in major events, such as the FIBA World Cup and Olympic Games.
Bird’s appointment also follows a transitional period for the USA women’s national team, which has seen significant leadership changes in recent years. Following Carol Callan’s retirement in 2021, Briana Weiss took on the director role, and now with Bird’s new leadership, there could be another wave of roster changes leading up to the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Germany. With high-profile players retiring, such as Diana Taurasi, the focus will be on bringing in fresh talent while maintaining the team’s competitive edge.
The announcement of Bird’s appointment is set for Thursday at Nike HQ in New York, where the future direction of Team USA’s women’s basketball will be revealed. As Bird transitions into this leadership role, USA Basketball is preparing for a new era that will likely bring a mix of veteran leadership and rising stars, all under the guidance of one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
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