WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert faces backlash over private social media account
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 10:00 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has faced criticism for making her X/Twitter account private amid ongoing debates surrounding transgender athletes in the league. The situation intensified following comments from Sophie Cunningham, which ignited a broader discussion that attracted political attention. Engelbert's decision has been described as 'strange and bizarre' by fans, who argue that transparency is essential for her leadership role. As of now, her account remains locked, and her current contract is set to expire at the end of the 2026 season.
- •Cathy Engelbert's X account remains private amid criticism.
- •Debate over transgender athletes in the WNBA has escalated recently.
- •Fans have expressed disappointment regarding Engelbert's lack of transparency.
- •Sophie Cunningham's remarks triggered broader political attention.
- •Engelbert's contract with the WNBA expires at the end of the 2026 season.
- 10:00 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Embarrassing’ – Cathy Engelbert’s ‘strange and bizarre’ social media decision called out by fans
"The WNBA has garnered a lot of attention over the last month or so amid the debate around transgender athletes competing in the league. Sophie Cunningham’s comments sparked the debate, and the issue has now drawn many eyes from the wider political sphere.
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