Cathy Engelbert faces scrutiny over WNBA relationship with Caitlin Clark

A report from the Sports Business Journal indicates that WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has maintained a professional distance from Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. Executives across the league reportedly cite a need for improved relationship building as a priority for the commissioner, noting a perceived disconnect with players and staff. The report states that Engelbert has not attended an Indiana Fever game since 2024 and canceled a scheduled visit in August. Critics suggest Engelbert intentionally avoided appearing to favor Clark given the league's demographic composition. Amid this discourse, Fever teammate Sophie Cunningham defended the impact Clark has made on the league’s visibility and popularity. Cunningham expressed confusion regarding why some figures are hesitant to acknowledge Clark's contributions to the growth of the WNBA.

• 12:08 PMYahoo Sports — “Another Conspiracy Theory Proven Fact”: Caitlin Clark Fans React as Cathy Engelbert Reportedly Chose Not to Build Relation With Fever Superstar