WNBA commissioner Engelbert cancels Dan Patrick interview

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is facing mounting criticism from prominent sports media figures after canceling a scheduled interview with veteran broadcaster Dan Patrick last week. The incident has intensified scrutiny of Engelbert's leadership during a period of unprecedented growth and controversy for the league.

Patrick announced on his show on Friday, July 10, that Engelbert had canceled a previously arranged interview that was to take place on Thursday, July 9, while both were attending the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Patrick stated that he and his producers waited nearly two hours before receiving word that the WNBA's public relations staff had instructed Engelbert not to proceed with the interview. He expressed disappointment, arguing that the commissioner missed a key opportunity to address pressing league issues publicly.

The broadcaster said he intended to ask straightforward questions about major storylines, including the attention surrounding Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, league expansion, officiating, player safety, and the WNBA's overall direction. Patrick contended that avoiding such conversations...