Incoming WNBL owners take ‘bold direction’ and appoint media and entertainment guru to top job

A leader in media and entertainment is set to take the reins on the WNBL’s top job, with incoming owners, Robyn Denholm’s Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate and the NBL taking a ‘bold’ approach.

Australia’s elite women’s basketball competition has a new leader for a new era with Jennie Sager chosen as the league’s next CEO.

The incoming owners of the WNBL – Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate (WCGS) and the NBL – have rubber-stamped Sager’s appointment, replacing Basketball Australia’s Head of WNBL Christy Collier Hill.

A leader in the entertainment, media and technology industries across both domestic and international markets, Sager will bring a wealth of knowledge to the WNBL’s top job from time spent in senior roles at Nine Entertainment, Viacom/MTV and Twitter.

Media and entertainment guru Jennie Sager has been appointed WNBL CEO. Picture: Supplied

The WNBL faces tough competition to grow its audience in today’s sporting landscape, up against the likes of Super Netball and with the rapid growth of AFLW and NRLW.

However, Sager has a clear vision for Australia’s longest running elite women’s sporting league with a focus on strengthening community connections, enhancing support for players, developing partnerships to further the league’s financial position and driving a digital platform to grow the WNBL audience.

“I am honoured to take on this role,” Sager said.

“I look forward to building on the league’s impressive legacy, listening to and learning from our talented players, dedicated teams, supporters, and key stakeholders, and finding new ways to connect with basketball fans across the country and the globe.

The new WNBL ownership with begin in 2025. Picture: Supplied

“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.”

Sager has a strong connection to basketball from her own playing experience in the American college system. While her passion for women’s empowerment is demonstrated through her role as chair of the Australian Women in Music Awards.

WCGS founder and now WNBL co-owner Robyn Denholm said Sager’s appointment “is an exciting step in building a strong and promising future for the WNBL and women’s sports in Australia”.

While NBL CEO David Stevenson added that Sager will bring a “bold new direction” to the women’s league.

“Under her guidance, we are confident the WNBL will achieve greater visibility, inspire the next generation, and reach new heights on and off the court.

“Her ability to foster meaningful partnerships and amplify the stories of our athletes will ensure the WNBL thrives in an increasingly competitive sports market.”

While Basketball Australia will continue to manage the current WNBL season through to completion in April 2025, Sager will commence her role early in the new year on January 2.

Originally published as Incoming WNBL owners take ‘bold direction’ and appoint media and entertainment guru to top job