WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will retire at the end of this year. Engelbert was the league’s first-ever commissioner, serving for seven years. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the news, highlighting Engelbert’s leadership during a significant growth period in the WNBA’s 30-year history. Silver expressed gratitude for Engelbert’s commitment to women’s basketball.

Engelbert’s retirement follows a contentious year in the WNBA, marked by Sophie Cunningham’s remarks on trans athletes and Caitlin Clark’s treatment. Engelbert explained her decision in a statement, reflecting on over 40 years in business. She noted her 2019 appointment as the first commissioner and the league’s growth potential.

During her leadership, the WNBA expanded from 12 to 18 teams. Engelbert focused on media rights and collective bargaining agreements. Although faced with criticism for insufficient marketing of WNBA stars such as Clark, Engelbert achieved remarkable growth.

The WNBA credited Engelbert with increasing viewership, digital engagement, game attendance, League Pass subscribers, merchandise sales, corporate partnerships, and franchise values. Engelbert introduced the in-season Commissioner’s Cup in 2021 and extended the regular season to 44 games in 2025, with a plan to reach 50 games in 2027.

Engelbert expressed gratitude and optimism for the WNBA’s future upon her retirement at 61. She offered thanks to the WNBA, NBA team owners, staff, players, investors, fans, and league staff for supporting the league’s growth. The successor to Engelbert’s role remains unannounced.