WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert faces player criticism over strained relationships
Despite overseeing significant commercial growth and a landmark collective bargaining agreement, Engelbert has been accused of failing to build trust and respond proactively to controversies.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is facing intensified criticism from players regarding her leadership and communication, an issue that has overshadowed the league’s All-Star Weekend in Chicago. Despite overseeing significant commercial growth and a landmark collective bargaining agreement that increased player salaries by nearly 400%, Engelbert has been accused of failing to build trust and respond proactively to controversies. These include racist and homophobic abuse directed at players, such as Alyssa Thomas, and public disputes over event participation.
Players, including WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike and stars like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, have called for improved dialogue and a shift from reactive to proactive management, with some questioning her continued tenure. This marks the second consecutive year the marquee event has been marred by discord between the front office and players, shifting from contract-year tensions to what many describe as self-inflicted wounds.
Specific recent incidents cited include Engelbert’s defensive response to a question about her tenure at the draft, where she remarked, "I wonder whether you would ask that of a man." Alyssa Thomas has also criticised Engelbert’s silence regarding the racist and homophobic abuse Thomas received after being suspended for an incident involving Caitlin Clark. Public squabbles with Sabrina Ionescu and Kalya McBride over their invitation to the three-point contest, and Engelbert skipping an interview with radio host Dan Patrick, have further fuelled the discontent.
Elena Delle Donne noted the significant growth of the All-Star Weekend, contrasting it with her first appearance in 2013. However, the league and union recently signed a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that increased player salaries by almost 400%. Despite this financial progress, players argue that the commissioner has overlooked the importance of building relationships with the player base, media, and fans.
Players met with Engelbert on Tuesday night and adopted a measured tone with the media, though questions remain about her continued tenure. Ogwumike expressed sympathy for Engelbert but emphasised the need for open communication to build trust. Stewart added that without an open line of communication, follow-through and trust cannot be established. The players are urging the league to move beyond reactive management to address the underlying issues in their relationship with the commissioner.
