The Las Vegas Review-Journal has recently undergone a significant transition in its Sports department, marking a new chapter in its storied journalism history. Bill Bradley has stepped into the role of assistant managing editor for sports, taking over from Allen Leiker, who is retiring after an impressive 36-year tenure, with 35 of those years dedicated to managerial roles within the department.
Leiker’s departure is the culmination of decades of contributions to the Review-Journal, particularly within the realm of sports journalism. “Awards are nice, and we won our share of them, but awards come and go,” he reflected. “What I’ll cherish most are the people I worked with, especially the past two years as sports editor. They were always there for me.” His legacy is underscored by a deep appreciation for collaboration and mentorship, reinforcing the values that have shaped the department.
Bradley, who previously held the same position from 2015 to 2022, is no stranger to the Review-Journal’s mission of delivering top-notch sports coverage. During his previous term, the sports section made waves with comprehensive reporting on the arrival of the Golden Knights and the Raiders in Las Vegas, as well as significant events like the Pro Bowl and the NHL All-Star Game. “I am ecstatic to be back at the Review-Journal,” Bradley stated. His enthusiasm reflects not only his excitement to return but also his commitment to evolving the department’s approach to coverage.
Bill Bradley’s Journey
Before his return to the Review-Journal, Bradley honed his skills at prestigious newspapers such as the Detroit Free Press, Sacramento Bee, and The Tennessean. His extensive experience also includes stints with the NFL and the Action Network betting site. This diverse background equips him with a unique perspective on reporting and storytelling, aimed at engaging readers in today’s fast-paced media landscape.
“I learned a lot in my time away from Las Vegas media, such as making coverage more focused on the reader,” he remarked. This insight is particularly valuable in a city known for its dynamic sports scene, where fans crave both timely news and in-depth analysis. Bradley’s understanding of the distinctive characteristics of the Las Vegas sports market positions him well to lead the Review-Journal into its next phase.
The Legacy of Allen Leiker
Leiker’s contributions overwhelmingly emphasized his ability to adapt and thrive amidst the evolving landscape of sports in Las Vegas. A native of Topeka, Kansas, he played an instrumental role in coordinating the coverage of major sports events that have shaped the city’s identity. Leiker’s tenure was marked by significant milestones, including guiding the coverage of the 2024 Super Bowl at Allegiant Stadium and celebrating the Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup championship in 2023. Notably, he was also the editor of “Golden!”—the Review-Journal’s book documenting the Golden Knights’ remarkable title run.
Reflecting on the evolution of sports in Las Vegas, Leiker shared a nostalgic yet forward-looking perspective: “We were always told that the NFL would never come to Las Vegas. And hockey in the desert? Yeah, right.” This evolution is a testament to both the city’s growth and the pivotal role the Review-Journal has played in chronicling its development.
Looking Ahead
As the Review-Journal transitions under Bradey’s leadership, excitement is palpable among the team. RJ Executive Editor Glenn Cook has publicly lauded both Bradley and Leiker, noting the bittersweet nature of this leadership change. He expressed his gratitude for Leiker’s decades of service while also celebrating Bradley’s return. “If you told Al at the start of his tenure at the RJ that he would finish his career covering a Raiders-Chiefs NFL game in Las Vegas, he would have laughed at you,” Cook remarked, highlighting the unpredictability of the sports world.
Cook’s confidence in Bradley is echoed in his statement on the expectations moving forward: “As our audience’s habits change, Bill will make sure readers find Review-Journal coverage, no matter the platform.” This strategic vision indicates a commitment to innovative storytelling, ensuring that the Review-Journal continues to resonate with its readers in an ever-changing digital landscape.
The anticipation of what Bradley’s leadership will bring is felt by both staff and readers alike. With a fresh perspective and a deep respect for established traditions, Bradley aims to further elevate the status of the Review-Journal as a cornerstone of sports journalism in Las Vegas.