Cathy Engelbert's time as the WNBA commissioner is coming to an end. The 61-year-old told The IX Sports she's retiring at the end of the 2026 season, ushering in a new era of leadership in the W.
Since becoming commissioner in 2019, Engelbert has seen the WNBA skyrocket in popularity, though she's faced criticism over her handling of the some of the recent controversies the league has faced.
“I had only intended to do this job for three-and-a-half years," Engelbert said. "I did. It’ll be seven-and-a-half by the end of the year, and obviously, I turn 62 in November. [It] was always my goal to retire at 62, and I just feel like we’re in a really good place from a variety of perspectives on the league. Obviously, it’s been an incredible seven-and-a-half years.
It’s been a great privilege.”
Here are four potential replacements for Engelbert.
Nneka Ogwumike
A WNBA legend who's served as the WNBPA president for the last 10 years, Ogwumike has been a popular commissioner possibility ever since she announced she was retiring at the end of this season. Perhaps it's too soon after her playing career for such a leap, but Oghwumike is widely respected and could help bridge the gap between the players and league.
Mark Tatum
The NBA's deputy commissioner and chief operating officer since 2014, this would be a natural next step for Tatum. He also has direct history with the W, serving as interim president before Engelbert took over in 2019.
Candace Parker
Another former WNBA great, Parker has been publicly critical of Engelbert's leadership and would immediately have the players' trust if she assumes the commissioner role. Parker is currently the president of women's basketball at Adidas, where she's learning the business side of the game.
Micky Lawler
Lawler is the commissioner of Unrivaled, the player-friendly 3-on-3 league co-founded by Napheesa Collier, and also has extensive history with the Women's Tennis Association. This could be the best option for commissioner if the WNBA decides against the former player route, as Lawler has been closer to the W than Tatum in recent years.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: 4 possible replacements for WNBA commissioner after Cathy Engelbert announces retirement
