Sophie Cunningham calls for unity and player ties in next WNBA commissioner

Indiana Fever wing Sophie Cunningham said NBA commissioner Adam Silver had spoken with her “a couple times” while leading the search for the WNBA’s next commissioner.

Cunningham said the new leader should unite the league and build an open, respectful relationship with its players. She did not endorse a specific candidate, leaving the decision to Silver and his team.

“The WNBA has always been a place for people to feel safe and comfortable,” Cunningham said, arguing that the league’s diversity made unity an important responsibility for its next commissioner.

She also said a player-first approach should include direct communication and mutual respect, even when the commissioner and players disagree over difficult decisions. Cunningham said players had criticised Engelbert’s relationship with them during her tenure.

Cathy Engelbert, who has served as commissioner since 2019, announced she would retire at the end of 2026. Her tenure included league growth and six expansion teams across the United States and Canada.