Bonnie-Jill Laflin is a trailblazing sports broadcaster, philanthropist, and TV personality. With a determined spirit and an unwavering passion for sports, she has carved a remarkable career path, becoming a prominent figure in the sports industry.
The first and only female NBA scout, holding the front office executive position with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bonnie-Jill holds many “firsts” throughout her prolific career. She’s the first woman to dance at a professional level for three teams, in two sports, starting with the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, and moving to the NFL for both the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys. She is the first female to be awarded six championship rings in two professional sports, earning a Super Bowl ring during her time cheering for the 49ers, and five NBA championship rings as an executive for the Lakers. Most recently, Bonnie-Jill adds a new “first” to her repertoire as co-host of the brand-new “Women’s Western Sports Roundup” on the Cowgirl Channel.
Beyond her accomplishments in sports, Bonnie-Jill ventured into the world of broadcasting, bringing her knowledge and enthusiasm to the airwaves. She has worked as a reporter and host for various high-profile networks, including ESPN, NBA TV, NBC/NBC Sports, NFL Films, Westwood One, CBS, E!, BBC Sports, SiriusXM, NFR Live, and Fox Sports. Most notably a host and ambassador for Michael Jordan's "Jordan Brand". Her charismatic personality and deep understanding of the game have made her a sought-after commentator and analyst, enriching the sports-watching experience for countless fans.
An alum of the University of Texas, the former Miss Dallas/Ft Worth USA has also graced the covers of magazines worldwide, is a competitive barrel racer, member of the Alameda County Sheriff's Mounted Posse, and recently created her own rodeo drill and flag team, The Liberty Belles.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Bonnie-Jill is a committed philanthropist that actively supports numerous charitable endeavors that champion the welfare of animals and U.S. Veteran's rights – causes that are near and dear to her heart. She is the founder of Hounds and Heroes and Horses, a non-profit that pairs rescue dogs as service and therapy dogs with wounded warriors and veterans, as well as rescue horses as equine therapy for our service members and sponsoring retreats. Working to improve the lives of veterans, she has traveled to military bases across the country and abroad on 19 USO tours, including visits to bases in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Bonnie-Jill’s remarkable journey is a testament to her unwavering passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Whether on the court, the field, in front of the camera, behind the microphone, or in the realm of philanthropy, she continues to break barriers and inspire others to pursue their dreams.
Bonnie-Jill resides on her ranch in Ft Worth, TX with her rescued animals.