Engelbert took over in 2019 as the WNBA’s first commissioner, and there is no question the league is substantially bigger, more visible and more valuable than when she arrived.The league expanded, secured major media-rights agreements, introduced charter travel and negotiated significant increases in player compensation through a new collective bargaining agreement signed before the 2026 season.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has called Engelbert’s tenure the most significant period of growth in WNBA history.But does she deserve credit for these successes? I believe the answer is clear.Being commissioner isn’t simply about revenue, television ratings or franchise valuations.
A commissioner must also maintain relationships with the players, and those relationships have been objectively tumultuous throughout Engelbert’s tenure.She must protect the league’s reputation and its stars, an area in which she has also fallen short.
She must manage controversies, something she has repeatedly failed to do.Finally, she must ensure the on-court product is entertaining and credible, which is arguably the strongest case in her favor.It goes without saying that Engelbert’s tenure has become increasingly contentious, helping lead to her decision to retire.SUE BIRD CLAIMS WNBA PLAYERS WANTED TO 'SHUT UP AND DRIBBLE' DESPITE LEADING 2020 POLITICAL PUSHWNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert speaks to the media before the 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Ind., on July 19, 2025.
(Getty Images)Engelbert’s first major test came almost immediately.The COVID-19 pandemic threatened the 2020 season, but the WNBA successfully created the "Wubble" — a play on words combining WNBA and bubble — in Florida and completed the season.While it was a success that the season was able to be played, the league also embraced an increasingly prominent social-justice role.
I truly believe this is where the WNBA became the most politically divisive leag...