WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert faces mounting criticism amid league's growth challenges
Stakeholders question Cathy Engelbert's leadership as the WNBA enters a period of rapid expansion and heightened scrutiny, while the league continues to post strong financial and viewership gains.
Cathy Engelbert, who has led the WNBA since 2019, is confronting increasing criticism from players, team executives and owners as the league navigates a period of rapid growth and heightened public scrutiny. While the league has secured $3.1 billion in new media rights, expanded to 18 teams by 2030 and negotiated a historic collective-bargaining agreement that includes $1 million salaries, several insiders say Engelbert’s relationships with key stakeholders are strained.
"It's easy to lead in good times. Leaders really emerge when you're at your best in your darkest moments," Engelbert told ESPN, emphasizing her focus on navigating recent crises.
The criticism intensified after a February on-court incident in which Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas was assessed a flagrant foul for striking Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Reports indicated NBA commissioner Adam Silver advised Engelbert on a suspension, but Thomas and the league’s response were perceived as inadequate, prompting a Congressional Republican letter demanding accountability.
Team executives described Engelbert as often “not personable,” “defensive” and “out of touch,” and noted her absence from high-profile events such as the league’s 30th-anniversary game and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame induction. Some insiders predict the 2026 season could be her last, citing a “deepening hole” in stakeholder confidence.
Engelbert defended her focus on the league’s business strategy, stating she is “optimistic about where we’re going” and that she maintains an “open-door policy” for players. She also highlighted the league’s new No Space For Hate platform, which aims to combat online harassment and improve security.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver praised Engelbert’s business acumen, but did not comment on her future. Sources say the league will need a successor who can strengthen relationships across owners, players and media while sustaining the momentum of the current growth phase.