WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert criticized for player relations
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 9:46 AM
Last updated Jul 27, 2026
Cathy Engelbert, commissioner of the WNBA, faces criticism from players for poor communication. Many stars report a lack of relationship with Engelbert, who does not acknowledge their personal milestones or engage constructively when issues arise. Despite these concerns, Engelbert has facilitated significant financial growth in the league, including securing a media rights deal projected over $3 billion and improving player salaries significantly. Stakeholders are debating the adequacy of Engelbert's performance as she continues her role.
- •Engelbert criticized for not communicating with WNBA players.
- •Players report feeling undervalued and unsupported by Engelbert.
- •She secured a significant media rights deal worth over $3 billion.
- •Average WNBA salary has increased 450% under her leadership.
- •Controversies surrounding her messaging continue to impact her reputation.
- 9:46 AMYahoo Sports — Cathy Engelbert may be unpopular with WNBA players, but she’s not paid to be their bestie
"Cathy Engelbert doesn’t communicate well with the players of the WNBA. She doesn’t text the current women in the workforce on their birthdays, nor acknowledge the O.G.s on their retirements. Mostly, she doesn’t reach out when they feel under attack from the cretins crawling about social media. Some of the WNBA’s biggest stars say they have no relationship with Engelbert. To put it succinctly, she’s not a good hang. When she does open up, though, Engelbert can come across as dodgy. When asked str
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