WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Announces Retirement

Cathy Engelbert, the first commissioner of the WNBA, announced her retirement at the end of the 2026 calendar year after seven seasons leading the league. In her official statement, Engelbert reflected on her time as commissioner, noting the "amazing" growth of the league over the years and the "enormous potential yet untapped awareness and significant undervaluation" of women's sports.

She highlighted the WNBA's significant milestones, including record attendance, rising player salaries, and new media deals. However, Engelbert also acknowledged the challenges she faced, such as criticism over the league's handling of player concerns related to safety, toxic online fan cultures, and questions about whether the WNBA's business growth kept pace with the expectations of its players.

The league has expanded rapidly during Engelbert's tenure, adding new teams including the Golden State Valkyries, Portland Fire, Toronto Tempo, and Cleveland. Engelbert's successor will inherit a WNBA that is larger, more valuable, and more visible than when she took over in 2019, but also one where players have been vocal about what they believe needs to change.

This raises questions about the kind of leader the league needs next, with a former player potentially bringing a different perspective to the commissioner's office.