"She Lives and Breathes the Game": Player Reaction to New WNBA President Lisa Borders

The WNBA ushered in a new era this week as the league introduced a new president, Lisa Borders.

Borders brings with her a wealth of leadership knowledge combined with a real passion for the sport. Not only was she instrumental in bringing the Dream to Atlanta, but she’s known as one of the team’s biggest fans, cheering from the front row of the Philips Center.

As the WNBA embarks on a milestone 20th season, WNBA.com sat down with some of the most recognizable in players in the game, both past and present, to get their thoughts on the new president, their interactions with her, and what they believe the future holds.

Elena Delle Donne, Chicago Sky

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“The meeting me and some other players had with her was incredible. It gave us great feel of how she is going to rejuvenate this league. We’re 20 years strong now and there HAVE been so many people that have done great things for this league, but I think that she is that exactly what this league needs to grow.

We asked her questions about what we can do as players to reach different fans and to engage new ones. We also talked about the different playoff schedule now and how that probably will add more excitement to the postseason. She just wanted to hear from us. We’re a partnership and we both need each other to be successful. It was just great to get in a room and discuss some of the things we’re interested in.”

Tamika Catchings, Indiana Fever

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“Yeah, I remember her on the sidelines [in Atlanta] and I’ve had plenty of conversations with her. I know that she’s ready for the job and will step in where those before her were and take this league to new heights. I’m excited to see where she will take the league.”

Chiney Ogwumike, Connecticut Sun

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“I’ve her known her and I knew that she was a big fan of Atlanta. Having someone that is a season ticket-holder and knows the game, that’s exactly what we need. She’s someone that lives and breathes the game, which is important.

I can remember her yelling from the front row, ‘Let’s go Dream!’ She would yell incessantly, and it’s not the kind of yelling that’s annoying; it’s the kind that shows she cares about her team. Now, to have someone like that who has that kind of passion as president, imagine her spreading that kind of passion for not just one team but for the entire league.

Ticha Penicheiro, WNBA All-Time Assist Leader

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“She loves basketball, which I think is half the battle. If you have someone that is truly passionate about what they do, whether it’s the president of the WNBA or whether you’re a dentist or an architect, if you have passion you’re going to be successful. She’s ready to roll up her sleeves and have this league continue to grow. I think she’s a great choice and was definitely worth the wait.”

Lindsay Whalen, Minnesota Lynx

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“I was upbeat when I heard the news. I’m excited and ready to meet her to hear some of the ideas that she has. It’s cool that she’s been a WNBA fan and was a part of the getting the Dream to Atlanta. Hopefully she can bring some creative ideas to keep moving the league forward.”

Natalie Achonwa, Indiana Fever

“The point that stuck the most with me is that she is an Atlanta Dream fan, so that’s a big thing coming in. Having someone that supports and believes in the league is very important. Having a fresh start with someone who truly loves the league is exciting.”