Since Adrian Wojnarowski revealed his departure from ESPN as one of its premier NBA insiders, fans have been eagerly awaiting news regarding who would fill his shoes there. For weeks it had been assumed Shams Charania may step in; on Monday however a formal announcement came through about this possibility.
At the start of last week, Shams announced his decision to join ESPN as senior journalist – having previously worked alongside Woj during their days together at Yahoo Sports. Interestingly enough, Woj had mentored Shams when both had joined Yahoo.
Basketball insiders had long speculated about his decision, with several media outlets reporting it just weeks after former mentor Patrick Kelly decided to step aside so he can pursue his dreams of managing St. Bonaventure University’s sports program as Sports Program Administrator.
ESPN clears cap space by trading Woj and waiving Lowe, giving them room to sign Shams Charania — via @ESPNNBA — pic.twitter.com/nfq8QVjq8 | NBACentel (@TheNBACentel). October 7, 2024.
Charania recently posted to social media about his excitement to join ESPN as senior NBA insider and serve the global sports audience as part of an incredible group of colleagues there. “I am beyond honored and can’t wait for what lies ahead as part of ESPN and our worldwide audience!”
On September 18th, longtime journalist Adrian Wojnarowski made headlines when he announced his decision and shocked the NBA world, where players, agents and executives showed their gratitude. Wojnarowski graduated from this university back in 1991 before embarking upon his journalism career.
“This craft transformed my life, yet I have decided to leave ESPN and the news industry,” Adrian announced several weeks ago on social media. He explained, “I recognize the commitment required in my role but no longer feel driven to invest my time there; time is fleeting so it would be best spent doing things more meaningful to myself.
At The Athletic, they did everything in their power to retain him: “We aren’t surprised that there has been such an interest in Shams — his coverage of NBA players remains unparalleled — said executive editor Steven Ginsberg. We are pleased and committed to keeping him at The Athletic for many more years to come!”
Charania was not the only candidate considered for this job – Ramona Shelburne and Jeff Passan also came into consideration for this opportunity.
Reports indicate that ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan could potentially switch beats and assume NBA duties; however, other insiders already exist on its payroll.
Although many speculate about Passan being chosen, other possible choices closer to home include Ramona Shelburne, Brian Windhorst and Tim Bontemps as possible candidates for Wojnarowski to mentor; now Shams Charania may also be considered.
Woj’s decision to switch roles within basketball and become general manager of his alma mater’s sport program does not constitute retirement; on the contrary, this commitment and passion he vowed for St. Bonaventure have solidified it further as his goal for St. Bonaventure will continue for some time yet.
