Sources: Engelbert Likely to Exit; WNBA Denies

Multiple Sports Business Journal sources say WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert is likely to exit her role after the current collective bargaining agreement negotiations. Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier publicly criticized Engelbert and the league over officiating, player compensation and comments Collier attributes to the commissioner, amplifying player backlash. The WNBA pushed back on the reports, with a spokesperson calling the claims 'categorically false,' and Engelbert was unavailable for comment. Engelbert, who became commissioner in 2019 and oversaw significant growth and expansion, faces mounting pressure as CBA talks approach an Oct. 31 deadline that could be extended. Insiders caution any departure is not necessarily imminent and could be voluntary, but Collier's rebuke and reports of chronic distrust between players, teams and the league office have intensified scrutiny of Engelbert’s future.