In a truly unexpected and lighthearted moment at the Dallas Wings’ home opener, the crowd erupted in cheers when former U.S. President George W. Bush stepped onto the court for what fans assumed would be a routine ceremonial appearance. But what happened next stunned everyone in attendance — the 43rd president of the United States was officially announced as the WNBA’s first-ever Honorary Commissioner. The announcement, made over the arena’s loudspeakers, instantly set off a wave of applause, laughter, and surprise from both fans and players alike.
Wearing a bright blue custom jersey emblazoned with the words “Dubya for Three” across the back, Bush looked both amused and genuinely honored by the crowd’s reaction. The former president, who has long been known for his easygoing humor and self-deprecating wit, couldn’t resist cracking a joke when reporters swarmed him courtside. Grinning, he quipped,
“After the White House, I figured I’d finally take a job where the plays are actually bipartisan.”
The line drew laughter not only from the audience but also from the players warming up nearby. Even the opposing team joined in on the applause, creating a rare, feel-good moment of unity — something that felt refreshing in today’s often divided world.
The WNBA, in a statement released shortly after the event, explained the reasoning behind the honorary title. The league highlighted Bush’s longstanding advocacy for women’s athletics, both during and after his presidency. According to officials, his involvement wasn’t just symbolic — it represented a genuine appreciation for the growth of women’s basketball and women’s sports as a whole. The statement also referenced his viral 2023 appearance at a women’s college basketball game, where cameras caught him enthusiastically cheering courtside and high-fiving young fans, a clip that spread widely across social media platforms.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed her excitement over the honorary appointment, saying,
“President Bush has always shown respect and enthusiasm for the progress of women’s sports in America. His presence at games and his support for athletes send a powerful message about equality, representation, and community.”
She added that the idea of making him the league’s first Honorary Commissioner was a way to celebrate that spirit of encouragement and to bridge generations of fans — from those who remember him as a world leader to those who now see him as a passionate supporter of the game.
Bush, who resides in Texas and is a known fan of multiple Dallas sports teams, appeared to thoroughly enjoy the moment. Between photos with the players and brief chats with fans, he shared warm smiles and waved to the crowd, occasionally making basketball-related jokes. “I’ve done some difficult jobs in my life,” he said with a laugh, “but I’ve never tried to guard Arike Ogunbowale — now that’s pressure.”
His humor, combined with his genuine demeanor, made the moment feel less like a political appearance and more like a hometown celebration. Many fans remarked that it was refreshing to see someone of his stature embrace the fun and energy of the WNBA, a league that continues to grow in visibility and popularity.
Local media captured every second of the event — the laughter, the energy, the collective surprise — and the clips quickly spread online. Within hours, hashtags like #DubyaForThree, #HonoraryCommissioner, and #WNBAHistory began trending, with fans sharing memes, edited highlight reels, and even mock “player stats” for Bush. One popular post humorously listed his “career achievements”:
2 Terms in Office
1 Honorary Commissioner Title
Infinite Dad Jokes
The WNBA’s move also sparked conversations about the league’s increasing cultural influence. Over the past few years, it has gained significant momentum, drawing record crowds and viewership numbers, and continuing to lead in social advocacy. By connecting with someone like Bush — a figure historically associated with leadership and civic engagement — the league sent a symbolic message that the growth of women’s sports is a national achievement worth celebrating.
Meanwhile, Bush’s lighthearted yet respectful participation reminded people of his more human side — the one who loves baseball, art, and a good laugh. As he exited the court, surrounded by applause, he stopped to sign a few jerseys and wave one last time before taking a courtside seat next to his wife, former First Lady Laura Bush, who smiled proudly as cameras captured the wholesome moment.
Before tipoff, Bush summed up the energy of the night perfectly:
“I’ve been around a lot of big moments in my life, but tonight, it’s about the players — they’re the real leaders on this court.”
The night ended with a Dallas Wings victory, but the headlines the next morning were less about the score and more about the unexpected new chapter in the WNBA’s history — and the unlikely, humorous, yet heartfelt role of a former president in helping celebrate it.
For the fans who witnessed it live, it wasn’t just another celebrity appearance — it was a reminder that sometimes, even in sports, unexpected moments can bring people together with laughter, respect, and a shared sense of joy.