WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to retire at the end of 2026
Engelbert oversaw a period of unprecedented growth for the WNBA, but has faced criticism from players over her leadership.
TL;DR
- WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will retire at the end of 2026.
- Her tenure saw significant growth in viewership (454%), attendance (70%), corporate sponsorship, and franchise valuations.
- Average WNBA team valuation reached $460 million, with the Golden State Valkyries valued at $1 billion.
- Engelbert oversaw league expansion to 18 teams by 2030 and negotiated a collective bargaining agreement with major pay increases for players.
- She faced criticism from players over compensation, officiating, and responses to racism, online harassment, and political protests regarding transgender athletes.
- Minnesota Lynx player Napheesa Collier famously criticized Engelbert's leadership.