In a surprising and lighthearted announcement at the Dallas Wings’ home opener, former President George W. Bush was named the WNBA’s first-ever Honorary Commissioner. The 43rd president sported a custom “Dubya for Three” jersey and joked with reporters, “After the White House, I figured I’d finally take a job where the plays are actually bipartisan.” The league highlighted Bush’s longtime support for women’s sports, as well as his viral 2023 appearance at a Wings game where he enthusiastically demonstrated his free-throw form, as reasons for creating the role.
The announcement sparked reactions across both the political and sports landscapes. Former First Lady Michelle Obama tweeted her excitement, while WNBA star Brittney Griner playfully welcomed Bush with a comment about “dunking on Twitter trolls.” Even critics praised the move as savvy publicity, with one ESPN analyst noting that Bush could bring more attention to the league in a single week than most politicians manage in a lifetime.
As Honorary Commissioner, Bush’s duties will include ceremonial tip-offs, advocating for expanded media coverage, and designing a special “Freedom Ball” for the 2024 All-Star Game—a nod to his painting hobby. During the press conference, he quipped, “I promise no hanging chads on the scoreboard,” before participating in an impromptu three-point contest with the Wings players, going 1-for-10.
The league hopes that Bush’s involvement will help amplify its ongoing efforts to promote gender equity in sports. His appointment is seen as a way to raise the profile of women’s basketball and attract new audiences, both through his celebrity and the playful, approachable manner he brought to the role.
Fans and media alike were charmed by Bush’s presence, noting his good humor and willingness to engage with players on the court. The former president’s light-hearted interactions underscored the event’s celebratory tone, demonstrating that his role would be more about promotion and advocacy than serious governance.
As the Wings prepare to tip off the season, Bush left the crowd with one of his signature lines: “Fool me once… shame on you. Fool me twice… well, let’s just say these ladies don’t get fooled at all.” With this unique endorsement, the WNBA heads into the new season with both excitement and a presidential stamp of approval.
