Cathy Engelbert declines to confirm future as WNBA commissioner
ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 12:30 AM
Last updated Jul 26, 2026
Cathy Engelbert addressed the media during her midseason press conference in Chicago, asked if she expects to remain WNBA commissioner for next season. She refrained from providing a definitive answer, noting her contract expires at the end of the year. Engelbert, who became commissioner in 2019, acknowledged the league's growth but pointed to areas for improved communication with players. WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike did not express a preference on Engelbert's potential return, reiterating her focus on collaborating with whoever leads the league. Engelbert faced criticism in the past from players, including recent remarks about the leadership of the league.
- •Engelbert's contract ends this year.
- •She became commissioner in 2019.
- •WNBA All-Star Game took place after her press conference.
- •Ogwumike emphasizes collaboration with the commissioner.
- •League expansion includes new teams in 2028, 2029, and 2030.
- 3:13 AMESPN — WNBA's Engelbert mum on job status for 2027
- 12:30 AMYahoo Sports — Cathy Engelbert Won't Say if She'll Return as WNBA Commissioner
"Cathy Engelbert was asked Saturday whether she expects to be commissioner at the start of next season. She did not answer yes or no. Her contract expires this year.
"Cathy Engelbert was noncommittal when asked if she expects to remain WNBA commissioner next season following months of increased scrutiny over her leadership.
Sources
External links- ESPNJul 26, 2026, 3:13 AMWNBA's Engelbert mum on job status for 2027
Cathy Engelbert was noncommittal when asked if she expects to remain WNBA commissioner next season following months of increased scrutiny over her leadership.
- Yahoo SportsJul 26, 2026, 12:30 AMCathy Engelbert Won't Say if She'll Return as WNBA Commissioner
Cathy Engelbert was asked Saturday whether she expects to be commissioner at the start of next season. She did not answer yes or no. Her contract expires this year.
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