New York Knicks: William “Worldwide” Wesley joins the front office
By Teresa Powe
The New York Knicks have added another giant name to its front office. William “Worldwide Wes” Wesley. Who is William Wesley and what will he bring to the New York Knicks?
In a June 2007 article, Alex French of GQ calls Wiliam Wesley, “the most connected, most discreet, most influential man on and off the court.” Is he the final piece to the New York Knicks’ new dynamic front office? Does the addition of the infamous “Worldwide” Wes mean the Knicks’ organization is finally serious about its’ business?
I ask because Wesley’s hiring has both New York and national analysts sitting up and taking notice of the team for something more than comic relief. I was excited to know that such a highly regarded and respected individual, such as William “Worldwide” Wesley would indeed be joining the Knicks’ front office as executive vice president/senior basketball advisor and right hand to president Leon Rose.
Who is William “Worldwide” Wesley?
William Wesley was born to a family of wealth and means in Camden, NJ. Beginning as early as high school, Wesley would always be wherever you would find the most popular ballplayers. In high school, he met and became lifelong friends with Leon Rose. The two have been friends for over 40 years, a sentiment expressed by Rose in New York’s announcement.
"We are very excited to announce the hiring of William Wesley, someone that I’ve known for over 40 years and consider to be family. He is one of the most well-connected and respected people in the basketball community and he will be a tremendous asset and resource to both myself and the New York Knicks."
Wesley was nicknamed Worldwide because of his vast array of connections and far-reaching influence. From hanging with Jerry Jones when the Cowboys won the Super Bowl, to the Malice at the Palace while holding on to Metta World Peace (Ron Artest at the time) and to courtside seats at any college or NBA game he wishes to attend, Worldwide Wes is everywhere…
In researching Mr. Wesley the same line could be found in every press release or article, “Is this the most powerful man in the NBA?”