In a move few could have predicted, former U.S. President George W. Bush has been officially named the first-ever Honorary Commissioner of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). The announcement came during a lively press event in Texas, where Bush, the 43rd president of the United States, arrived courtside sporting a custom jersey emblazoned with the phrase “Dubya for Three.”
Smiling broadly and clearly enjoying the moment, Bush quipped to the crowd and assembled reporters:
“After the White House, I figured I’d finally take a job where the plays are actually bipartisan.”
The lighthearted remark set the tone for what both the former president and league officials hope will be a mutually uplifting partnership—one part humor, one part advocacy, and a whole lot of attention for women’s sports.
Why the WNBA Chose George W. Bush
According to WNBA leadership, Bush’s appointment as Honorary Commissioner was inspired by his long-standing public support for women’s athletics and, more specifically, by his viral 2023 appearance at a Dallas Wings home game. That event became an internet sensation when cameras captured him enthusiastically attempting free throws alongside players—smiling, laughing, and engaging with fans in a way that showcased his approachable personality.
The video spread across social media platforms within hours, racking up millions of views. For the WNBA, that single night was proof of what Bush’s public presence could do: attract attention, spark conversation, and bridge audiences who might not otherwise engage with professional women’s basketball.
“We’ve always believed the WNBA is more than just a sports league—it’s a cultural force,” said league spokesperson Karen Miles. “President Bush’s humor, visibility, and genuine enthusiasm for our players make him an ideal figure to shine a bigger spotlight on our mission.”
A Role That’s Symbolic—but Not Without Influence
While Bush will not be involved in day-to-day league operations, the position of Honorary Commissioner comes with several ceremonial duties:
- Participating in ceremonial tip-offs at select games throughout the season.
- Promoting women’s sports and advocating for equitable media coverage.
- Designing a special commemorative basketball—dubbed the “Freedom Ball”—for the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game, incorporating his personal hobby of painting.
- Attending key WNBA events, including playoffs and charity initiatives.
- Serving as a goodwill ambassador for the league both in Texas and nationally.
Bush’s first public appearance in the role will be at the Dallas Wings season opener, where he’s scheduled to handle the ceremonial tip-off and meet with young fans from local basketball programs.
The Announcement: Humor Meets Hoops
During the press conference announcing the appointment, Bush kept the crowd entertained with his trademark folksy humor.
“I promise no hanging chads on the scoreboard,” he joked, referencing the infamous 2000 presidential election recount in Florida.
After a short speech about the importance of women’s sports, Bush joined several Dallas Wings players for a lighthearted three-point shooting contest. While his final score—1 basket out of 10 attempts—won’t land him an NBA contract anytime soon, the crowd’s cheers suggested that accuracy wasn’t the point. The real win was the good-natured interaction between the former president and the players.
Social Media Reacts
Within minutes of the announcement, social media lit up with a mix of surprise, humor, and applause.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama tweeted:
“Who’s got next? (Seriously, this is awesome.)”
WNBA star Brittney Griner joined in with a playful welcome:
“Hope you like dunking on Twitter trolls, sir.”
Even some of the league’s more skeptical followers admitted the move was a public relations slam dunk. ESPN analyst Corey Daniels commented during a live segment, “He’ll bring more attention to the league in one week than most politicians do in a lifetime.”
More Than Just a Celebrity Appointment
While some might see Bush’s appointment as a novelty, league officials emphasize its deeper purpose: to bring new visibility to the WNBA and help normalize men—especially those with influence—actively supporting women’s professional sports.
The WNBA has been steadily growing in viewership, sponsorship deals, and cultural relevance. With new television contracts and a rising number of sold-out arenas, the league is riding a wave of momentum. Having a former U.S. president on board, even in a symbolic role, could further amplify that growth.
“Visibility matters,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “When people see figures like President Bush supporting our players, it challenges outdated notions about women’s sports and opens doors to new audiences.”
The Bush Sports Connection
Though best known for his political career, Bush has a long history with athletics. Before entering politics, he served as a part-owner of the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team. He has frequently spoken about the role sports play in building character, fostering teamwork, and uniting communities.
Bush has also been a regular fixture at Texas sporting events over the years, from college football games to Little League championships. Friends say he rarely turns down an opportunity to throw a ceremonial first pitch or participate in a community sports day.
Painting Meets Basketball: The “Freedom Ball”
One of the more creative elements of Bush’s new role is his commission to design a commemorative basketball for the WNBA All-Star Game. The “Freedom Ball” will be hand-painted by Bush, who took up painting as a post-presidency hobby and has even published books of his artwork.
While details of the design are still under wraps, league insiders say it will incorporate Texas themes, patriotic colors, and possibly portraits of notable WNBA players. The ball will be auctioned after the game, with proceeds benefiting girls’ youth sports programs.
The State of the WNBA
Bush’s appointment comes at a time of both opportunity and challenge for the league. The WNBA has been pushing for:
- Increased media coverage to match the rising skill level and entertainment value of its games.
- Expanded sponsorships to support higher player salaries.
- Greater investment in youth outreach, ensuring the next generation of players sees professional women’s basketball as a viable career.
Viewership for the 2024 season hit an all-time high, with major broadcast networks picking up more games and streaming platforms adding WNBA content to their sports lineups. The Dallas Wings, in particular, have seen a surge in ticket sales—something team executives hope Bush’s involvement will only accelerate.
Public Figures in Sports Advocacy
Bush’s role also continues a growing trend of high-profile figures lending their voices and visibility to women’s sports. Over the past decade, celebrities, former politicians, and business leaders have stepped into ambassador-like roles for leagues ranging from the WNBA to professional women’s soccer.
The strategy works both ways: leagues benefit from the added publicity, while public figures have the opportunity to champion causes that resonate with younger generations and diverse audiences.
A Lighthearted Exit
As the event wrapped up, Bush addressed the crowd one final time. In a nod to one of his most famous verbal slip-ups, he said:
“Fool me once… shame on you. Fool me twice… well, let’s just say these ladies don’t get fooled at all.”
The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, and Bush waved as he left the court—a presidential sendoff for a day that mixed sports, humor, and advocacy.
Looking Ahead
The WNBA season tips off next week, and league officials say Bush’s first duties as Honorary Commissioner will include attending the Dallas Wings opener, participating in youth basketball clinics, and promoting women’s sports initiatives across Texas.
Whether or not his three-point percentage improves over the season remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his involvement has already put the WNBA at the center of a conversation it has long deserved.
