Amid widespread speculation, Ackerman revealed she will step down from the position she has held for eight years as of February 1, 2005.
Said Ackerman: “The past eight years have required much sacrifice in my family life, and at this juncture it is my profound desire to devote myself more fully to the lives and activities of my daughters.
“It has been a privilege to serve as the WNBA's first president and to be part of the extraordinary growth of women's basketball over the past decade, and I want to thank David Stern, Russ Granik, Adam Silver and the NBA's owners for their enduring commitment to the WNBA and for a level of support completely unmatched in women's sports."
Named WNBA president on August 7, 1996, Ackerman presided over the first WNBA game on June 21, 1997 when the league debuted with eight teams. The league currently has 13 teams with games televised nationally on the ABC, ESPN2 and Oxygen networks. The WNBA benefits from a strong roster of 17 marketing partners developed during Ackerman’s tenure, including Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Anheuser-Busch, American Express, General Motors and Gatorade.
Ackerman will lead the search for her successor, which will begin immediately, and will act as an advisor to the league and NBA commissioner David Stern.
Said Stern: “Under her leadership the WNBA has grown from concept to a successful and thriving enterprise. We are grateful for her enthusiasm and passion and look forward to her continuing advice and counsel as we build upon the success she helped generate.”
Val Ackerman has confirmed her resignation as president of the WNBA.
