Just in time for election season!
According to the Bleacher Report, LeBron James just named WNBA star Nneka Ogwumike as the new head of his “More Than a Vote” nonprofit organization. Originally launched in 2020, James created the org in support of Black Lives Matter with a focus on championing rights for Black voters amidst widespread voter suppression efforts. Now, James is focusing on pivoting the company’s mission, doubling down on women and reproductive rights ahead of the 2024 election season. With that new focus comes new leadership, James saying he’s “proud to pass the torch” to the Seattle Storm star.
“So proud to pass the torch to [Nneka Ogwumike] and an incredible team of women for this next round. Their voice is the most powerful right now and we need to get behind them. I encourage y’all to join the fight with us, led by these great ladies and [More Than a Vote],” wrote James on social media.
Ogwumike was selected as the No. 1 draft pick in the 2012 WNBA draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. A nine-time All-Star, WNBA MVP, and WNBA champion, Ogwumike has also served as president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association since 2016. A superstar and vocal advocate for women, James said the shift in leadership only made sense.
“It’s only right that this election be about women athletes,” James told reporters.
So proud to pass the torch to @nnekaogwumike and an incredible team of women for this next round. Their voice is the most powerful right now and we need to get behind them. I encourage y’all to join the fight with us, led by these great ladies and @morethanavote! https://t.co/kavb5Zarxz
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 13, 2024advertisement
Ogwumike is stepping into her new role at a critical time, with VP Kamala Harris as the newly chosen Democratic nominee. Thousands have come out in droves for VP Harris, raising millions of dollars for her campaign as she faces off against Republican nominee Donald Trump in what will be a seminal moment in American history. Women’s productive rights are at the forefront of the political debates. Ogwumike’s leadership will be critical as More Than a Vote and other voting rights organizations gear up for a crucial push to get voters to the polls.
Cover photo: LeBron James Appoints WNBA’s Nneka Ogwumike as New Head of ‘More Than a Vote’ Initiative/Photo credit: Tracy Nguyen/Fast Company