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Cathy Engelbert faces scrutiny following handling of Caitlin Clark incident

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 3:38 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Cathy Engelbert faces scrutiny following handling of Caitlin Clark incident

Summary

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is reportedly in a precarious position following her management of a recent incident involving Caitlin Clark. Critics, including players and media pundits, have lambasted Engelbert’s leadership, citing her response to Clark's situation and player suspensions as points of contention. Engelbert's earlier successes, including a historic CBA deal, have not alleviated concerns about her future, especially after NBA Commissioner Adam Silver had to intervene regarding player suspensions. Sources suggest this situation may signal Engelbert's likely exit from the WNBA before the end of her current term.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Engelbert has been WNBA commissioner since 2019.
•She is facing backlash for her handling of player incidents.
•Napheesa Collier publicly criticized Engelbert’s leadership.
•Clark supported Collier’s remarks during offseason discussions.
•NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reportedly had to persuade Engelbert on player suspensions.

Latest Updates

3:38 PMYahoo Sports — ‘Likely in her final season’: WNBA commissioner in trouble after Caitlin Clark incident

What they're saying

"
It has been a tumultuous tenure for WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, but after her handling of a recent incident involving Caitlin Clark, it sounds like she may be on her way out. Engelbert, who has served as the league’s commissioner since 2019, has faced some heavy criticism in recent months, from the league’s handling of…
— Yahoo Sports

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