Born: 1959 (Lakewood Township, New Jersey)
Biography:
Valerie B. Ackerman, born on November 7, 1959, is an American sports executive, former lawyer, and former basketball player. Ackerman is widely recognized as the first president of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), a position she held from 1996 to 2005. Her influential role in shaping women’s professional basketball in the United States has left a lasting impact on the sport.
Ackerman was born in Lakewood Township, New Jersey but grew up in Pennington, New Jersey. She was raised in a Roman Catholic family and had a strong athletic background. Her grandfather served as the director of athletics for Trenton State College, while her father held a similar position at Ackerman’s own high school.
During her high school years at Hopewell Valley Central High School, Ackerman excelled in multiple sports. She etched her name in the school’s history by setting the varsity basketball career record for points scored by any player, male or female. Additionally, she also set the school’s career scoring record in field hockey. Ackerman’s versatility extended to the track team, where she showcased her athleticism.
Continuing her academic and athletic journey, Ackerman attended the University of Virginia, graduating in 1981. She was among the university’s first female students to receive an athletic scholarship. Playing for the women’s basketball team, Ackerman’s skills propelled her to become a starter for all four years and captain for three. She earned the distinction of being the university’s first basketball player to score 1,000 points. Ackerman was also recognized for her academic achievements and was twice named an Academic All-American. She graduated with a B.A. in Political and Social Thought.
In recognition of her achievements and impact in the sports industry, Ackerman was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. She also received the Distinguished Alumna Award from the University of Virginia’s Women’s Center in 1997. Additionally, she was named a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s 50th Anniversary Women’s Basketball Team in 2003.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Ackerman pursued a legal career, earning a J.D. degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She worked as a corporate and banking associate at the New York City law firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett for two years. However, Ackerman’s genuine passion for sports led her to a career in the basketball industry.
Ackerman’s professional basketball journey began in France, where she played for one season. In 1988, she joined the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a staff attorney and later served as a special assistant to NBA Commissioner David Stern. Her role within the organization continued to expand, eventually leading to her promotion as vice-president of business affairs.
In 1996, Ackerman made history by becoming the first president of the newly formed WNBA. Under her leadership, the league experienced significant growth and development. She played a crucial role in securing partnerships, fostering fan engagement, and attracting sponsorship deals. Ackerman’s tireless efforts and groundbreaking leadership set a strong foundation for the WNBA to thrive and become a major force in women’s professional sports.
Beyond her contributions to the WNBA, Ackerman’s impact extended internationally. She served on the board of directors of USA Basketball, representing the NBA and facilitating the selection and training processes for the teams that represented the United States in international tournaments, including the World Cup and the Olympics.
Val Ackerman’s dedication to women’s basketball and her influential role in shaping the sport’s landscape rightfully place her among the trailblazers of women’s sports. Her strategic vision, leadership, and commitment to equality have paved the way for future generations of athletes and continue to shape the evolution of women’s professional sports.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011