WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirms search for successor

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced that a search firm is currently vetting candidates to succeed her following her planned retirement at the end of the calendar year. Speaking ahead of the WNBA Finals, Engelbert noted that the search process is underway and that many individuals have expressed interest in the position.

Engelbert emphasized that the next commissioner will require ‘very thick skin’ to navigate the multi-dimensional responsibilities of the role, which include managing relationships with players, agents, owners, and stakeholders. She highlighted the need for leadership that can maintain the league’s current growth trajectory while supporting players against social media vitriol and hate.

During her seven-year tenure, which began in 2019, Engelbert oversaw the league’s expansion from 12 to 18 teams and negotiated media rights valued at over $2 billion. She also presided over a historic collective bargaining agreement that resulted in the league’s first million-dollar player salaries. Her leadership coincided with significant increases in league valuations and the growth of the league office staff.