WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced her retirement, effective at the end of the calendar year. The announcement was made by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who lauded Engelbert for presiding over a period of significant growth in the league's 30-year history.
Engelbert, the first commissioner in the WNBA's history, served in the role for seven years. In a statement, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity and reflected on the league's evolution during her tenure.
"After more than seven years at the WNBA and more than 40 total years in business, I have made the decision to retire as WNBA Commissioner," Engelbert stated. "In 2019, I had the privilege of being appointed the league’s first commissioner and to lead a league with enormous potential yet untapped awareness and significant undervaluation. Over the years, it has been amazing to watch WNBA players thrive and lead the massive cultural surge around women’s sports."
Her retirement follows a year of notable controversy for the league. Discussions surrounding transgender athletes in women's sports and the treatment of player Caitlin Clark have been prominent storylines throughout the current season.