Sue Bird is trading her sneakers for a suit — but don’t expect her to slow down. The five-time Olympic gold medalist and certified WNBA legend has been named the first-ever managing director of the USA Basketball Women’s National Team, putting her in charge of building rosters, picking coaches, and basically running the most dominant program in women’s hoops like a boss.
At 44, Bird already has a résumé that reads like a basketball fairytale: 13-time WNBA All-Star, four-time champion with the Seattle Storm, record-holder for most assists in league history, and a brand-new inductee into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Now, she’s making history again — this time off the court, becoming the first person ever to hold this managing director role in the program’s 50-year existence.
“It’s a huge honor,” 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.”
No Pressure, Just Perfection
Bird takes the reins at a time when Team USA’s edge is razor-thin. They haven’t lost a game at the Olympics or World Cup since 2006, but recent wins have been closer than expected. That pressure? She’s used to it. “Everybody who takes this job is in a no-win situation,” she told NBC. “The pressure is always there for USA Basketball.”
She’s not wrong — one wrong roster move and the gold-medal streak could crack. But if there’s anyone who knows how to lead under fire, it’s the point guard who steered the U.S. through five straight Olympic victories.
An Out and Proud Leader
Sue Bird’s appointment isn’t just historic for basketball — it’s a moment for visibility in the LGBTQ community. As an openly gay sports icon, Bird has long been a symbol of strength, grace, and out-and-proud success in a world that still has work to do when it comes to queer inclusion in sports leadership.
Her relationship with soccer star Megan Rapinoe has made them one of the most recognizable power couples in sports. Together, they’ve used their platforms to champion equality and LGBTQ rights, proving time and again that visibility matters — especially in the highest offices of the sports world.
Now, as the face of one of America’s most successful athletic programs, Bird’s leadership sends a message to LGBTQ athletes everywhere: we’re not just on the court anymore — we’re calling the shots.
Still Ballin’, Just Differently
Despite “retiring” in 2022, Bird’s schedule is anything but chill. Between her basketball podcast, front-office roles with Gotham FC and the Storm, and now this USA Basketball gig, the woman is booked and blessed. “It doesn’t feel like work,” she said. “It’s all in the world of basketball — a world I know really well.”
And let’s be real: Sue Bird may not be dropping dimes on the floor anymore, but she’s still running the game. She’s just doing it in heels.