Taj McWilliams-Franklin Named Deputy Commissioner of the UPSHOT League

September 18, 2026 — Taj McWilliams-Franklin, six-time WNBA All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, has been named Deputy Commissioner of the UPSHOT League, expanding her leadership role as the professional women’s basketball league builds on its inaugural season and looks ahead to 2027.

As Vice President of Basketball Operations for UPSHOT’s inaugural season, McWilliams-Franklin helped build the league’s basketball infrastructure, laying the groundwork for league procedures, player experience, and coaches and personnel.

“Taj has been an essential part of UPSHOT from the beginning,” said Andy Kaufmann, UPSHOT Co-Founder and CEO of Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. “She brings an incredible depth of experience across every level of women’s basketball, but just as importantly, she understands what players and teams need to succeed. Her leadership will be invaluable as UPSHOT enters its next phase of growth.”

Prior to joining UPSHOT, McWilliams-Franklin spent five years working in player relations and development in the WNBA and previously served in NBA Basketball Operations. A six-time WNBA All-Star and two-time WNBA champion during her 14-season career, she also played internationally for more than two decades and has coached at both the collegiate and professional levels, including with the New York Liberty and Dallas Wings.

“As we welcome new teams for the 2027 season and continue to expand, my responsibility is to ensure we are scaling strategically, strengthening our foundation, and putting the necessary systems and standards in place to support the league’s long-term success,” said McWilliams-Franklin. “I’m excited to lead UPSHOT through this next chapter and continue creating meaningful opportunities for our players, coaches, and communities.”

UPSHOT completed its inaugural season in August, with the Charlotte Crown earning the league’s first championship following a season of play across Charlotte, Greensboro, Jacksonville, and Savannah. Planning for the 2027 season is underway, with new teams in Baltimore and Nashville and additional markets to come as UPSHOT continues its mission to create professional opportunities, uplift players and communities, and build a league that reflects the continued growth of the women’s game.

About the UPSHOT League

The UPSHOT League is a premier women’s professional basketball league built on elite competition, player opportunity, and community connection. With a foundation rooted in high-level talent and global experience, the league aims to redefine the professional landscape while expanding opportunities for women’s basketball in the United States. The league currently consists of six teams, including: Jacksonville Waves, Charlotte Crown, Greensboro Groove, Savannah Steel, Baltimore Starlings, and Nashville Vibe. For more information, including live game schedules, tickets, and real-time statistics, visit the UPSHOT league website at upshotleague.com or follow @upshotleague on major social platforms.