Introduction

Jenna McLaughlin’s ascent to Head of the Women’s Sports Division at Priority Sports in Chicago was not a predetermined path. With an extensive background in basketball coaching and administration, she has found herself at the forefront of a pivotal moment in women’s sports.

A Background in Sports

Before joining Priority Sports, McLaughlin accumulated a wealth of experience. She worked for Korn Ferry as a Sector Leader, where she managed searches for basketball coaches, cultivating relationships that would later prove invaluable.

Her background also includes significant roles at Army West Point and North Carolina State, equipping her with both managerial skills and connections necessary for developing a new division.

The Call to Action

In July 2024, a pivotal conversation with Dan Eveloff, Vice President at Priority Sports, prompted McLaughlin to consider a leadership role in women’s sports. The initiative aimed at expanding the agency’s influence in a market seen as ripe for growth, especially after witnessing Caitlin Clark’s impressive performance in women’s college basketball.

Mark Bartelstein, the founder and CEO of Priority Sports, recognized the increasing momentum behind women’s athletics and believed that McLaughlin was the ideal candidate to lead this new venture.

Building a Vision

Reflecting on her career ambitions, McLaughlin realized the frequent exclusion of women from key discussions about sports leadership. This insight motivated her to formally apply for the position. By December 2024, she officially took the reins of the Women’s Division.

“I can’t harp enough on her leadership skills. She just commands a room with such a presence,” noted Jenna Coenen, Director of Athlete Marketing at Priority Sports, highlighting McLaughlin’s ability to foster collaboration across various sectors within the industry.

Impact and Growth

Since her arrival, McLaughlin has focused on recruiting, leading to the acquisition of collegiate players like Ohio State’s Chance Gray and UConn’s Ashlynn Shade. Eveloff remarked on her determination, stating, “She wants to uplift the industry,” indicating a clear path of growth for the division.

This strategic initiative aligns with the rising visibility and popularity of women’s sports, and McLaughlin is steadfast in her vision for creating a lasting legacy within Priority Sports.

Concluding Thoughts

Jenna McLaughlin envisions her division not solely as a response to current trends but as an integral part of the agency’s long-term strategy. “We’re not trying to be the biggest agency. But sports provide women a seat at the table in a way that I think not every industry does,” she stated, underlining her commitment to establishing Priority Sports as a leading agency in women’s basketball.