WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced on Friday that she will retire from her position at the end of the calendar year, a move that sources suggest is being privately welcomed by many players amidst recent league controversies.
Engelbert, the first commissioner in WNBA history, has navigated the league through a period of unprecedented growth and increasing public attention since taking the role in 2019. However, her tenure has also been marked by scrutiny over player pay, officiating, and, more recently, league policies concerning transgender athletes.
A source told the Daily Mail that Engelbert's decision came after a realization that the time was right to step away from ongoing discussions. "A lot of players may not say it publicly, but saying they're happy about Cathy's retirement announcement would probably be an understatement," the source said. "Cathy hasn't exactly made a lot of friends among players or league executives, and now that the WNBA is getting more attention than ever, there's a growing feeling that the league needs someone who can truly handle that spotlight and help take things to the next level."
Despite internal tensions, Engelbert highlighted the league's achievements during her tenure. "Over the years, it has been amazing to watch WNBA players thrive and lead the massive cultural surge around women's sports," Engelbert stated in a press release. "I retire knowing we have built something bigger, stronger and more enduring than we could have imagined. I am grateful to the WNBA and NBA team owners and staff, players, investors, fans and the powerhouse league office staff, who believed in what this league could become."
The league has experienced substantial growth, particularly since 2024, coinciding with the arrival of star player Caitlin Clark. This surge in popularity has amplified discussions around the league's operations and policies.
WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike acknowledged Engelbert's role in guiding the league through change. "Cathy Engelbert stepped into the WNBA at a pivotal moment and helped guide the league through a period of extraordinary change," Ogwumike said. "As the league's first Commissioner, she championed new growth initiatives, created innovative marketing opportunities for players, and helped drive historic expansion as franchise values reached new heights."
WNBA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson reflected on their working relationship, noting it was not always smooth. "Cathy and I have been through a lot together over the years. We didn't always agree," Jackson said. "There's no question the WNBA has grown tremendously during Cathy Engelbert's time as Commissioner. She brought a significant amount of business experience to the league and helped make the case for the value of The W and the opportunity in front of it." Jackson added that they shared a belief in the league's potential and navigated significant challenges, including two collective bargaining agreements that she believes changed the trajectory of women's sports.
Following Engelbert's announcement, former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom declared his interest in the commissioner role, stating a desire to "Make WNBA Female Again" and claiming he would bring "common sense" and "fairness."