WNBA Starts Search for New Commissioner After Cathy Engelbert Retires at 61
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Sep 4
WNBA Starts Search for New Commissioner After Cathy Engelbert Retires at 61
3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Sep 4
Summary
The WNBA said Sept. 4 that Cathy Engelbert will retire at year-end, opening a succession search after seven years running the league.
Her tenure delivered major growth — including a $3.1 billion, 11-year media-rights deal, higher ratings and salaries, charter flights, and expansion from 12 teams to 15, with three more due by 2030.
That progress was shadowed by recent backlash over Engelbert’s handling of a Caitlin Clark-Alyssa Thomas incident, officiating concerns, and the league’s response to online harassment and transgender-athlete protests.
USA TODAY listed possible successors including Duke athletic director Nina King, Ally executive Andrea Brimmer, former WNBA star Swin Cash, Taj McWilliams-Franklin, and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr.
The search now centers on finding a leader who can manage political and cultural flashpoints while converting the league’s popularity into sustained business growth.