The WNBA appears to be preparing for a change at the top. According to a report from ESPN's Alexa Philippou, multiple high-ranking team sources believe Cathy Engelbert's run as commissioner will end after the 2026 season. The news comes after a series of controversies that have left many stakeholders questioning her ability to lead the league through its current boom.
Engelbert took over in June 2019 and has overseen significant business growth, but her handling of on-court incidents—especially involving Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark—has drawn sharp criticism. Last season, Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas delivered a hard foul to Clark's throat, but Engelbert initially resisted suspending her. It took pressure from NBA commissioner Adam Silver to push through a one-game ban, a move that exposed tension between the leagues.
The commissioner later agreed to an interview with Dan Patrick to address the controversy, but she pulled out at the last minute. That no-show sparked a media firestorm. Former ESPN anchor Jemele Hill didn't hold back, saying, "When Cathy Engelbert used gender as cover when she was asked difficult questions, it came off as small. As commissioner, she’s supposed to set the tone for the league. I don’t think she’s built for the moment the W is in."
Sources told Philippou that Engelbert has failed to prioritize building a relationship with Clark, the league's most marketable player. "Conversations with more than 20 stakeholders in and around the WNBA who spoke on the condition of anonymity, including owners, management, players and other industry insiders, offer a general belief that for as much business growth Engelbert has overseen, she’s not the right person to navigate the demands the league currently faces," Philippou wrote.
This isn't the first time Engelbert's leadership has been questioned. Earlier this year, Dan Patrick blasted the WNBA commissioner for her no-show, calling it disrespectful and exposing the league's PR fears. And in a separate incident, Engelbert broke her silence after Thomas called her out, but the response did little to quiet critics.
If Engelbert is replaced in 2027, the next commissioner will have to hit the ground running—especially when it comes to Clark. The rookie sensation has become the face of the league, and any future leader will need to be on good terms with her. Engelbert is scheduled to speak with reporters this Saturday before the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, and you can bet someone will ask about her future.
The report also echoes broader questions about leadership in sports. Just as the SEC commissioner admitted breakaway talks are real amid mounting frustration in college football, the WNBA is facing its own crossroads. For now, all eyes are on Engelbert's next move—or whether the league decides to make it for her.
