WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to Retire

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced Friday that she will retire at the end of the calendar year, concluding a seven-year tenure marked by significant growth and considerable controversy. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed the decision, stating that Engelbert, the league's first commissioner, presided over the WNBA during its most substantial period of expansion and development. Engelbert's departure comes after a season where the league's record-breaking growth was frequently overshadowed by off-court issues. These included debates surrounding player safety and officiating, particularly concerning Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, and broader cultural discussions, notably the controversy over transgender athletes in women's sports. During her time leading the league, which began in May 2019, Engelbert oversaw unprecedented expansion, growing the WNBA from 12 to 15 teams with plans to reach 18 by 2030. She also played a key role in negotiating a lucrative 11-year media rights deal worth $3.1 billion and secured $75 million in capital for the league in 2022.