NEW YORK – Renee Brown, WNBA Chief of Basketball Operations and Player Relations, is stepping down after 20 years in the league office, it was announced today by WNBA President Lisa Borders.  Her last day is Oct. 20, after which Brown will help find her successor and join the Jr. NBA Leadership Council.

Brown, who assumed her current position in 2005, has been responsible for overseeing the policies for all oncourt basketball operations as well as the administration of player-related programs.  She joined the WNBA in September 1996 as Director of Player Personnel and has been part of the league since its inception.

In her current role and through her work with the WNBA’s Competition Committee, Brown has directly influenced how the game is played and overseen the growth in the skill level, athleticism and pace of the play.  During the most recent regular season, the WNBA’s 20^th campaign, teams set records for average points per game, field goals made and attempted, field goal percentage, free throws made, free throw percentage and assists.

“These 20 years with the WNBA are among the most fulfilling of my life,” said Brown.  “I love the WNBA and will cherish all the wonderful memories and experiences during my tenure.  I want to thank David Stern, Val Ackerman, Russ Granik and Adam Silver for the opportunity to join the WNBA family.  To every player who has worn a WNBA jersey, thank you.  It has been a privilege serving all of you. I also want to thank Lisa Borders and look forward to continuing to support her and the entire league, teams and players as I move on to other opportunities.”

“Renee’s contributions to the WNBA’s growth have been immeasurable,” said Borders.  “It has been a pleasure working alongside her during this landmark season and I will continue to rely on her expertise.  She will always be part of the WNBA family.”

Brown has also played an integral role with USA Basketball since 1996.  In addition to serving on the USAB Board of Directors, she chaired the USA Basketball Women’s Senior National Team Selection Committee and served on various USAB committees including its Executive Committee and Steering Committee.  The U.S. Women’s Senior National Team won Olympic gold medals at the conclusion of each of Brown’s stints, in 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012 and 2016.