BREAKING: Amanda Braun has officially been named the chair of the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Committee, a significant milestone in her career that underscores her dedication to women’s sports. The announcement comes just ahead of the 2024 Women’s Final Four, scheduled for April 3-5 in Phoenix, Arizona, where she will play a pivotal role in shaping the tournament.
This appointment marks a profound moment for Braun, who has deep ties to basketball. As a standout from Brodhead High School, she has witnessed the evolution of women’s basketball firsthand, returning to the Final Four in 2022 as the Director of Athletics at UW-Milwaukee. “It was just such a full-circle moment,” Braun stated, reflecting on her journey from fan to leader in the sport.
In her new role, Braun will oversee a 12-member committee tasked with evaluating teams throughout the 2025-26 season. From March 11-16, they will meet in Indianapolis to select and seed the 68 teams for the NCAA tournament. “We want to get it right for all the teams that work so hard all year,” Braun emphasized, highlighting the rigorous process that includes extensive data analysis and team evaluations.
Braun’s journey has not been without challenges. Injuries during her collegiate career at Siena College shaped her perspective on teamwork and administration. “I understand what it feels like to not play… I have a lot of empathy for kids who have that experience,” she remarked, showcasing her commitment to supporting athletes.
A graduate of Siena College, Braun initially pursued law at Duke University before discovering her passion for athletic administration. She has since risen through the ranks, serving as associate director of athletics at UW-Green Bay and as Executive Senior Associate Director of Athletics at Northeastern University.
Her leadership has not gone unnoticed; in 2023, she was honored as the NCAA Division I Nike Executive of the Year by Women Leaders in College Sports. As Braun prepares for her role on the Selection Committee, she acknowledges the weight of the responsibility but remains excited about the challenges ahead. “I will tell you that I am thrilled and honored and humbled to be a part of this,” she affirmed.
As the countdown to the Women’s Final Four begins, Braun’s leadership will undoubtedly influence the future of women’s basketball. Fans and athletes alike will be watching closely as she guides the committee through this crucial season, ensuring that every team receives the recognition they deserve.
Stay tuned for more updates as Braun embarks on this exciting chapter in her career, impacting the landscape of collegiate athletics and inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
