Nneka Ogwumike hints at potential future as WNBA commissioner
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 5:18 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Nneka Ogwumike, the All-Star forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, announced her retirement from the WNBA on August 20, 2026. During an interview, she discussed her fulfillment over her 15-year career and addressed the possibility of becoming WNBA commissioner, stating she doesn't close doors on future opportunities. Ogwumike, who has been influential as the President of the WNBPA, highlighted the importance of relationships in leadership roles. As the Sparks' season comes to a close with their final game scheduled for September 24, Ogwumike reflected on her achievements as a player and her ongoing commitment to the league's growth.
- •Nneka Ogwumike retires after 15 seasons in the WNBA.
- •She served three terms as President of the WNBPA.
- •Ogwumike discusses her leadership philosophy in an interview.
- •Her final game is against the Golden State Valkyries on September 24.
- •Dissatisfaction with current WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert is rising.
- 5:18 PMYahoo Sports — WNBA legend hints at becoming league’s new commissioner
"On Wednesday, Los Angeles Sparks All-Star forward Nneka Ogwumike announced her impending WNBA retirement. “I feel very fulfilled with the 15 years that I’ve been able to play and compete at such a high level, and I am proud to say that I am retiring from the WNBA,” Ogwumike told Taylor Rooks in an exclusive…
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