League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

WNBA faces criticism over media policies from prominent reporters

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 2:06 AM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

WNBA faces criticism over media policies from prominent reporters

Summary

The WNBA is under scrutiny following remarks by Jemele Hill and Cari Champion regarding the league's media policies during their podcast. They criticized the league for attempting to control media narratives, suggesting that its practices might hinder coverage and growth. The discussion comes amid record viewership and attendance for the 2026 season, including 2.1 million viewers for Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. Hill highlighted recent concerns over limited media accessibility during critical playoff moments, while Champion accused the league of 'quietly bullying' journalists who do not align with its desired portrayal. The WNBA will have a new commissioner next season, as Cathy Engelbert is set to retire.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Jemele Hill and Cari Champion criticize WNBA media policies.
•WNBA sees record average viewership of 771,000 in 2026.
•Game 1 of the WNBA Finals reaches 2.1 million viewers.
•Critics claim coverage is stifled by league pressures.
•Cathy Engelbert will retire as commissioner next season.

Latest Updates

2:06 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Don’t like to be criticized’: WNBA accused of ‘quietly bullying’ certain reporters

What they're saying

"
The WNBA has never been more popular, with viewership and attendance numbers setting records throughout the 2026 season. But two prominent voices in sports media think the league is getting in its own way with its media policies. On their podcast this week, Jemele Hill and Cari Champion argued that the WNBA’s media policies are…
— Yahoo Sports

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