sue Bird Takes on New Role as Managing Director of USA Women’s National Team
Five-time Olympic gold medalist to guide teh future of USA Basketball’s women’s program.
COLORADO SPRINGS – WNBA legend and five-time Olympic gold medalist Sue Bird has been appointed the frist managing director of the USA Women’s National Team,USA Basketball announced Thursday [[1](https://apnews.com/article/usa-basketball-olympics-bird-11d908122c676d3cfee6a9bf90770260)]. The move signifies a new era for the organization as it prepares for upcoming international competitions.
Bird to oversee Roster, Coaching Selections for Key Competitions
Approved by the USA Basketball Board of Directors, Bird’s responsibilities will include selecting coaching staff and players for major events. This includes the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, as well as program training camps over the next three years.
Bird Expresses Excitement, Gratitude For New Opportunity
“It’s a huge honor to be named managing director of USA Basketball’s Women’s National Team,” Bird said. “Representing the United States has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support the next generation as they carry that legacy on. I’m excited to take on this new role and to work alongside the USA Basketball staff and Board of Directors as we prepare for this upcoming chapter of USA Basketball.”
USA Basketball Lauds Bird’s Leadership, Knowledge
USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley emphasized Bird’s respected status within the basketball community. “Having known Sue for many years, I’m confident her leadership and knowledge will be a huge asset to the continued success of our women’s national team program, and we’re excited to have her join us as we head towards the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympic games.”
Bird’s Storied Career: A Legacy of Excellence
Bird, a 2025 Naismith Basketball Hall of fame inductee, boasts an unparalleled career. Her accomplishments include five Olympic gold medals (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020) and four World Championship titles (2002, 2010, 2014, 2018).She has a remarkable 162-9 record with USA Basketball teams as 2000.
A Dynasty of Dominance
The USA Women’s National Team is considered one of the most dominant forces in sports, holding 11 World titles and 10 Olympic gold medals. The team has not lost an Olympic or FIBA Women’s World Cup game as 2006.
A Look Back at Bird’s Illustrious Playing Career
The New York native also had a storied WNBA career, winning four WNBA titles over nearly 20 years with the Seattle storm and has obtained five EuroLeague titles.At the University of Connecticut, Bird led the Huskies to two NCAA titles (2000, 2002) and won multiple player of the year awards in 2002
Record-Breaking WNBA Career
Bird ranks first in WNBA history with 580 games played, accumulating 6,803 points, 1,466 rebounds, and 3,234 assists.
