Cathy Engelbert addresses online abuse targeting WNBA players at All-Star press conference
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 12:51 AM
Last updated Jul 26, 2026
During her annual midseason press conference in Chicago, Cathy Engelbert condemned the racism, misogyny, and homophobia directed at WNBA players. The statement followed a meeting with WNBA players and the union regarding an increase in online abuse. Engelbert emphasized the need for better communication with players and addressed issues surrounding player safety. Phoenix forward Alyssa Thomas, who recently faced death threats after a controversial incident on the court, called for action from the league. Engelbert announced plans to enhance security resources and open centralized Replay Center operations for the 2027 season before the All-Star Game at the United Center tipped off.
- •Engelbert condemned racism and homophobia in statements.
- •Alyssa Thomas received death threats following a controversial incident.
- •Improved communication with players is a priority for Engelbert.
- •Centralized Replay Center operations start in 2027.
- •The WNBA expanded to 15 teams earlier this year.
- 5:55 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Empty Words,’ ‘RESIGN’ – WNBA Commisioner Cathy Engelbert’s Statement on Players Receiving Online Hate Sparks Backlash
- 12:51 AMYahoo Sports — Cathy Engelbert Condemns Online Abuse Directed at WNBA Players
"WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed online hate directed at the league’s players at a news conference during the league’s annual All-Star Game on Saturday at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Engelbert emphasized that the league does not tolerate racism, harassment, or threats against its players and that the WNBA is set to implement initiatives to address the issue, whether on or off the court and online.
"Cathy Engelbert opened her All-Star press conference by condemning the racism, misogyny, and homophobia directed at WNBA players, days after meeting with the union.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 26, 2026, 5:55 AM‘Empty Words,’ ‘RESIGN’ – WNBA Commisioner Cathy Engelbert’s Statement on Players Receiving Online Hate Sparks Backlash
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed online hate directed at the league’s players at a news conference during the league’s annual All-Star Game on Saturday at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Engelbert emphasized that the league does not tolerate racism, harassment, or threats against its players and that the WNBA is set to implement initiatives to address the issue, whether on or off the court and online.
- Yahoo SportsJul 26, 2026, 12:51 AMCathy Engelbert Condemns Online Abuse Directed at WNBA Players
Cathy Engelbert opened her All-Star press conference by condemning the racism, misogyny, and homophobia directed at WNBA players, days after meeting with the union.
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