WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is reportedly planning to retire at the end of the current season, according to ESPN. Engelbert is currently in her seventh season leading the league, with her contract set to expire after the 2026 season.
Her departure follows a period marked by significant controversies, including disputes over the treatment of superstar player Caitlin Clark and debates concerning transgender athletes. The league has faced several public relations challenges in recent seasons, contributing to increased pressure on the commissioner.
Engelbert recently oversaw the ratification of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement with the WNBA Players' Association. This agreement, reached after lengthy negotiations, significantly increased player salaries, introducing million-dollar contracts for the first time in the league's history. The deal was facilitated by the WNBA's recent surge in revenue, media rights deals, and viewership, largely attributed to the arrival of Caitlin Clark as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2024. Despite this, Engelbert has faced ongoing calls for her resignation throughout the tumultuous season.