WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Faces Criticism Over Caitlin Clark Safety Handling

Former Indiana coach Dan Dakich accused WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert of being “ineffective and cowardly,” arguing that the league’s recent financial boom is driven by star guard Caitlin Clark rather than league leadership. Dakich called for clearer guardrails and respect for players amid rising online threats and on‑court physicality.

Republican Study Committee Chairman Rep. August Pfluger also pressed Engelbert for details on how the league enforces safety rules after repeated incidents involving Clark. Pfluger said the commissioner’s generic response fell short of the specifics he requested and pledged to keep pressure on the league for greater accountability.

Both criticism streams highlight concerns over player safety, league governance, and the political spotlight on the WNBA during the Caitlin Clark era.