Will Cathy Engelbert Stay? Adam Silver Breaks Silence on WNBA Commissioner's Future

At the NBA's Board of Governors meeting, Adam Silver, the NBA commissioner, was asked about Cathy Engelbert's future as WNBA commissioner. Silver highlighted Engelbert's work since joining the WNBA in 2019, following a successful career of over 30 years at Deloitte, where she was CEO for four years. Silver mentioned that Engelbert's future plans have not yet been discussed with the WNBA board, but praised her performance. The WNBA is preparing for its 30th season, and the question of Engelbert's continuation remains.

Before Engelbert's arrival, the commissioner's role was held by a league president, starting with Val Ackerman in 1996. Both Ackerman and Engelbert reported to the NBA commissioner, underlining the close relationship between both leagues.

During her tenure, Engelbert has faced challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected revenue and game attendance. Despite these setbacks, Engelbert has overseen rapid growth in the league. In the last three years, nearly $1 billion in expansion fees have been secured. However, she has also made controversial decisions, such as selling a 16% stake in the league for $75 million in 2022. This decision has been the subject of criticism, especially compared to the high expansion fees paid later by other teams.

The sale of the 16% stake in 2022 for $75 million was a point of controversy. Nearly two years later, the Golden State Valkyries ownership group paid an expansion fee of $50 million. In 2025, the price increased to $250 million when NBA ownership groups in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia joined the league.

The controversy over Engelbert's leadership reached its peak when Napheesa Collier, a Minnesota Lynx player, publicly criticized the commissioner. Collier stated that the lack of accountability from the league office was a real threat to the WNBA. Collier described the league's leadership as "the worst in the world" and revealed a private conversation with Engelbert. In this conversation, Engelbert allegedly suggested that Caitlin Clark should be grateful for earning $16 million off the court. Engelbert denied Collier's statements.

Collier's criticism came after the Lynx's loss in the semifinals. Her comments reflected growing dissatisfaction among some players about the direction of the league and Engelbert's management. Collier's statement sparked a debate about transparency and accountability within the WNBA.

Following the Board of Governors meeting, Silver stated that both WNBA players and owners are satisfied with the collective bargaining agreement. Silver also praised Engelbert's work, stating that "the results speak for themselves." Silver alluded to the NBA's majority ownership in the WNBA, with over 40%, and the participation of several NBA owners in WNBA teams.

The collective bargaining agreement, reached after 17 months of negotiations, has been hailed as a milestone. Silver emphasized the importance of this agreement for the league's future. The satisfaction of the players and owners suggests a positive environment heading into the new season.

The WNBA season will begin on May 8, and Engelbert appears ready to continue leading the league for now. However, her future beyond 2026 remains uncertain. Silver has indicated that he has not yet discussed Engelbert's future plans. Engelbert's contractual status is unclear, and league officials have not answered questions about the expiration date of her contract.

The lack of clarity about Engelbert's future adds an element of speculation. The uncertainty about her continuation could affect the league's long-term planning. The situation will be closely watched as the season progresses.