the drop. · Oct 18, 2026

Outgoing WNBA commissioner Engelbert reflects on tenure, warns successor will need resilience

Cathy Engelbert addressed reporters Saturday ahead of Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals in what is anticipated to be her last public appearance as commissioner before she steps down at year's end. Looking back on seven-plus years leading the league, Engelbert described inheriting an organization that was nearly bankrupt in 2019 and overseeing its growth from 12 to 18 teams, a media rights package now valued at more than $2 billion, and a collective bargaining agreement reached this spring that produced the league's first millionaire players. The league office also expanded from 12 to nearly 100 employees during her tenure, and franchise valuations have climbed steadily, with the Golden State Valkyries topping Sportico's 2026 rankings at $850 million. Engelbert said the search for her replacement is underway and that she has personally submitted candidate names to the search firm Excel, while cautioning that whoever takes the role must be confident and prepared to weather significant criticism.

Legacies are for the history books to write, I'm not writing it,

From Sportico

Why it matters

For brands: Sponsors and partners invested in the WNBA's growth trajectory will be watching closely to see what direction a new commissioner takes the league.

For media: A commissioner change at the WNBA comes as the league's $2 billion-plus media rights deals are in effect, making the succession story significant for broadcast and digital partners alike.

For athletes: Players will be navigating a leadership transition at a time when a landmark CBA is still being implemented and their relationship with league management remains a topic of public debate.

Read the full story at Sportico

Sources

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