Sophie Cunningham indicates potential WNBA commissioner change ahead
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 2:14 PM
Last updated Aug 19, 2026
Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever suggested in an interview that the WNBA commissioner position may become available at the end of the year. While acknowledging the contributions of current commissioner Cathy Engelbert, Cunningham emphasized the need for bold leadership to support the league's growth amid ongoing scrutiny, particularly regarding issues related to transgender athletes. She stated that the decision would ultimately rest with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. Cunningham's comments reflect broader concerns among players about the direction of the league.
- •Sophie Cunningham suggests WNBA commissioner's job may be open at year's end.
- •Cunningham emphasizes need for bold leadership in women's leagues.
- •Current commissioner Cathy Engelbert's future is uncertain amid scrutiny.
- •Cunningham's remarks came during an exclusive interview with USA TODAY Sports.
- •Decision on leadership rests with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
- 2:14 PMYahoo Sports — Sophie Cunningham provides blunt opinion on Cathy Engelbert's future as WNBA commissioner
- 1:44 PMYahoo Sports — Sophie Cunningham: WNBA commish job may be 'open at the end of the year'
"In an exclusive interview with USA TODAY Sports, Fever's Sophie Cunningham says Cathy Engelbert's fate as WNBA commissioner is "up to Adam Silver."
"With questions over the WNBA commissioner's long-term outlook, Cunningham recently offered her opinion.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 19, 2026, 2:14 PMSophie Cunningham provides blunt opinion on Cathy Engelbert's future as WNBA commissioner
With questions over the WNBA commissioner's long-term outlook, Cunningham recently offered her opinion.
- Yahoo SportsAug 19, 2026, 1:44 PMSophie Cunningham: WNBA commish job may be 'open at the end of the year'
In an exclusive interview with USA TODAY Sports, Fever's Sophie Cunningham says Cathy Engelbert's fate as WNBA commissioner is "up to Adam Silver."
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