With over two decades of NBA experience, Michael Winger, president of Monumental Basketball, has a deep understanding of team building and organizational culture. From his early days with the Cleveland Cavaliers to leadership roles with the Oklahoma City Thunder and L.A. Clippers, he’s helped reset franchises and develop elite talent.
Now at Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Winger oversees operations for the Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics, and Capital City Go-Go, working alongside general managers to build competitive teams while investing in long-term growth.
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“You can’t win with talent alone,” Winger said. “Culture helps athletes become the best versions of themselves.” Winger says the approach at Monumental is ensuring athletes have the support they need both on and off the court—including medical teams, strategy teams, analytics and public relations.
The Future of Tech in Sports
One thing that is having an impact on everything from arena design to fan engagement: AI. Winger envisions a future where fans can experience games through immersive tech—like helmet cams and real-time data overlays—bringing them closer to the action than ever before.
“We’re treating sport as more of a SaaS product—sport as a service. There’s a package of goods and experiences that can piggyback the live event and give fans more ways to engage,” says Winger.
As sports arenas evolve, Winger sees a shift toward frictionless, tech-driven experiences with innovations like smart concessions to interactive courts. Monumental is already implementing these innovations, creating a more seamless and connected environment for fans.
Watch the full conversation to learn more about how Monumental Basketball is thinking about the future of sports and entertainment.
