Sonia Chase Appointed as President of UPSHOT Baltimore Franchise, Aiming to Make History

Sonia Chase Takes the Helm of UPSHOT Baltimore

In a landmark move for women's professional basketball, UPSHOT Baltimore has announced the appointment of Sonia Chase as the franchise's president. Set to launch in May 2027, the team represents the fifth installment of the UPSHOT League, a professional women's basketball organization owned by Zawyer Sports & Entertainment.

Sonia, a proud Baltimore native, stands as a symbol of resilience and leadership with nearly 30 years of experience in the sports sector. Her impressive resume boasts a career that spanned the WNBA and international leagues, where she broke barriers for women athletes as the first player drafted directly from the University of Maryland while still enrolled as a student-athlete. This key moment not only showcased her talent but also her commitment to fostering opportunities for future generations of female athletes.

Under Chase’s leadership, UPSHOT Baltimore is positioned to thrive both commercially and within the community. The franchise will call the Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena its home, and plans are already underway to announce team branding, colors, and key personnel, including a head coach, in the months leading up to its inaugural season.

In a statement delivered at the press conference, Greg Resh, the Governor of UPSHOT Baltimore, expressed his enthusiasm for Chase’s appointment: “Sonia embodies everything that makes Baltimore great - grit, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to community.” Her comprehensive understanding of sports, community development, and partnerships positions her uniquely for this pivotal role.

Reflecting on her new position, Chase added, “As a proud daughter of Baltimore, this moment means more to me than words can capture... I get to do both, at home, building something historic for the city I love.” Her resolve to create a franchise that not only excels on the court but also uplifts the local community aligns perfectly with UPSHOT's mission of fostering connections between athletes and their surroundings.

Beyond her accomplishments on the court, Chase has made a significant impact as an executive and community leader. Her tenure at Secretariat’s Global Sports Practice allowed her to advise various sports entities, preparing them for growth strategies and enhanced community engagement. Previously, she was also involved in managing a sponsorship portfolio exceeding $4.9 billion at Deloitte, where her expertise benefitted numerous high-profile organizations, including the WNBA, Team USA, and upcoming Olympic Games.

Moreover, Chase's commitment to youth empowerment is evident through her nonprofit, Chase Your Dreams Academy. This initiative has provided vital resources and mentorship opportunities for over 13,000 youth in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., focusing on various essential skills, including financial literacy and leadership development. Her efforts were recognized with the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, highlighting her dedication to positive societal change.

As the countdown to 2027 begins, excitement builds around UPSHOT Baltimore and the potential it holds for both the sport and community. Fans can look forward to engaging with a franchise deeply rooted in its hometown pride and commitment to excellence, spearheaded by a leader who knows the city like no other.

For more information about the franchise's upcoming developments, visit Baltimore.upshotleague.com.

About UPSHOT League

The UPSHOT League is dedicated to creating a sustainable and empowering platform for women's professional basketball, aiming to inspire future generations of athletes. As it embarks on its journey with franchises like UPSHOT Baltimore, it remains committed to innovation and community engagement within the realm of women's sports.

About Zawyer Sports & Entertainment

Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, Zawyer Sports & Entertainment is a leading sports management company focused on developing memorable experiences in professional sports, catering to the needs of athletes and fans alike.