WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert stated that the league will implement "next steps" to address what she described as "harassment" against players, including racism, misogyny, and homophobia. Speaking at the WNBA All-Star game press conference, Engelbert vowed to tackle "every aspect" of the player experience, both on and off the court, as well as online.
"The racism, the misogyny, the homophobia, the harassment, and threats directed to our players has no place in sport or anywhere else," Engelbert said, noting that these issues have intensified recently but have been present since she assumed her role. She acknowledged that "more work to do" is necessary to ensure player safety and well-being.
The commissioner's remarks come amidst heightened public attention on the treatment of players, particularly phenom Caitlin Clark, who has been the subject of intense scrutiny and physicality on the court. Fans have voiced concerns over incidents such as Clark being struck in the throat during a game. Online, some players, including Clark and Aces player Chelsea Gray, have reportedly faced threats and racially charged comments.
Engelbert faced questions regarding her tenure as commissioner, including whether she anticipates remaining in her position for the start of the 2027 season. She did not provide a direct answer, stating instead, "I will just continue to just do my job, execute the strategy because it has been working." She characterized those directing negativity towards players as "keyboard warriors."
When asked about player security and the league's transparency regarding fines and suspensions, Engelbert's responses were met with criticism for being evasive. She repeatedly referred to existing "processes" without offering specific details on improvements or investigations. Notably, questions about a recent USA Today column that drew parallels between Clark's situation and the historical context of Emmett Till's murder, or the specific incident involving Alyssa Thomas's contact with Clark, were not raised during the press conference. Additionally, a letter sent by 11 Republican lawmakers urging greater accountability for the physical treatment of Clark was also not directly addressed.
Engelbert did announce that the WNBA plans to implement a full replay center starting in 2027. The commissioner's handling of league controversies this season and in recent years has led to calls from some critics for her dismissal.