Jennie Sager Appointed future WNBL CEO to Lead Transformation in Women’s Basketball

The Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) has appointed Jennie Sager as its next Chief Executive Officer, set to commence on January 2, 2025. This announcement comes as the League prepares for a major relaunch under the new ownership of Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate (WCGS) and the National Basketball League (NBL), following their acquisition earlier this year.

Sager’s extensive career in global media and technology, including roles at Nine Entertainment, Viacom/MTV, Twitter, and Nextdoor, positions her as a transformative leader for the WNBL. Her background as an elite college basketball player and grassroots advocate for the sport brings a deep understanding of the game at all levels. In addition to her professional experience, Sager is Chair of the Australian Women in Music Awards and a Director of Sydney’s City Recital Hall, further showcasing her commitment to championing women in leadership.

Robyn Denholm, WCGS founder, emphasised the significance of this appointment, stating, “We look forward to working with Jennie as we prepare for the 25/26 season to re-launch the WNBL and elevate women’s basketball across Australia.”

Sager’s leadership aims to strengthen the League’s community connections, build sustainable partnerships, and use digital innovation to grow audiences both locally and globally. Her focus on supporting players as professional athletes is expected to elevate the WNBL’s standing as a leader in women’s sport.

Basketball Australia will oversee the current season until operations transition to WCGS and the NBL on April 1, 2025. Basketball Australia will retain a minority stake in the League moving forward.

Sager expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “The WNBL represents the pinnacle of women’s basketball in Australia, and I am honoured to take on this role. Together, we will work to further the WNBL’s reputation as a premier destination for women’s basketball while driving greater representation and success for women in sport.”

Her appointment follows an extensive international search led by Elevate Talent, signalling a strategic step towards realising the League’s ambitious goals.

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