Danita Johnson Brought Lessons From WNBA to MLS at D.C. United
The president for D.C. United and Audi Field spoke with Newsweek about her career in sports and the United's future.
Danita Johnson, the current president of business operations for D.C. United and Audi Field, has always viewed sport as "connective tissue" in her life. Growing up with an Army father, her family moved often, but Johnson always found connection through sports. This love for sports carried her throughout her career in multiple leagues, eventually leading her to Major League Soccer.
Her first love, however, was basketball. After beginning her career in the NBA G League, she worked in the WNBA, where she was named president and chief operating officer of the Los Angeles Sparks. Her experience in the WNBA taught her the importance of fan loyalty and experience. When the opportunity at D.C. United arose, Johnson saw it as a chance to expand her professional abilities while continuing to work in women's sports.
She was drawn to the opportunity of overseeing Audi Field, which began as a 20,000-seat stadium but has since hosted various events, concerts, and teams. Johnson aims to continue this growth by implementing a $620 million stadium renovation, creating more niche experiences for fans, and fostering a strong sense of community within the stadium.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
