WNBPA President Addresses Cathy Engelbert's Future as Commissioner
Newsweek · C · trust 32/100
0 Share Newsweek is a Trust Project member See more of our trusted coverage when you search. Prefer Newsweek on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search. The last year has put Cathy Engelbert's future as WNBA commissioner at risk.
She has received criticism from players like Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier, who describes the WNBA's front office as the "worst leadership in the world." Additionally, players like Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas have spoken out about the lack of protection for players receiving death threats and hateful comments from spectators.
Engelbert's contract is also set to expire after the 2026 season.
Engelbert has not addressed her uncertain future as the league's commissioner.
"I'm focused head-down on executing this highly, highly successful 30th season," Engelbert said. "I love this league. We're going to continue to drive the business. And don't worry about me. It's more about the team ... that's what we've built here at the W. So, I'm really, really optimistic about where we're going in the future."
Ahead of the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game, WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike was asked about Engelbert's potential exit as commissioner. Ogwumike kept a neutral stance on the matter.
“It’s not on me to decide. As players, when leadership is here, we rock with leadership," Ogwumike told reporters .
Ogwumike has served as the WNBPA's president for 10 years and has been re-elected three times throughout her career. She contributed to securing a new seven-year collective bargaining agreement for WNBA players in March.
Ogwumike will serve out a three-year term after she was re-elected as president in June.
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