Geno Auriemma suggests WNBA commissioner focus on perception issues
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 1:05 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Geno Auriemma commented on WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's challenges during an interview, highlighting that while she cannot control players' individual statements, she can influence how the league is perceived. Auriemma criticized the current focus on political issues overshadowing basketball, suggesting that a clearer message is needed about the sport itself. Tensions have arisen as players express dissatisfaction with Engelbert's leadership, particularly regarding external political discussions affecting the league's image. Auriemma’s perspective may prompt Engelbert to reevaluate her approach to messaging amidst ongoing challenges.
- •Geno Auriemma questions the WNBA's focus on political statements over basketball
- •Players are openly critical of Engelbert's leadership approach
- •Auriemma suggests clearer communication of the league's core message
- •Engelbert's leadership faces external pressures, including political issues
- •Auriemma's comments may influence future strategies for the WNBA
- 1:05 PMYahoo Sports — Geno Auriemma gives Cathy Engelbert a simple solution to fix WNBA’s political problem
"UConn legend Geno Auriemma believes WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert can’t control what players say, but there is one thing she can do. Look, the WNBA is practically suffocating under its own growth right now.
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