Cathy Engelbert's tenure as the WNBA commissioner is set to conclude at the end of this year, prompting discussions about her successor. USA TODAY Sports has identified five candidates who could potentially fill the significant role in the league's future.
Engelbert, who took the helm in 2019 after a successful career at Deloitte, has overseen a transformative period for the WNBA. Under her leadership, the league has experienced substantial growth, including increased team valuations, improved television ratings, and higher player salaries. Notably, Engelbert was instrumental in securing a groundbreaking media rights deal valued at $3.1 billion over 11 years, while also advocating for charter flights for teams instead of commercial travel. Furthermore, the WNBA expanded from 12 to 15 teams during her time, with plans for three additional franchises by 2030.
However, Engelbert's time as commissioner has not been without controversy. This summer, she faced backlash following a flagrant foul incident involving Alyssa Thomas and Caitlin Clark, which sparked a wider discussion about player safety and officiating in the league. Engelbert's response to the incident drew criticism, particularly her decision to remain silent on the matter, which some felt undermined the league's integrity. The situation escalated when U.S. House Representatives publicly demanded protection for Clark, adding pressure on Engelbert to address the situation more openly.
As the WNBA navigates these challenges, the search for a new commissioner is underway. Jeff Hunt, a crisis management expert, noted the difficulty in finding a successor, emphasizing the need for a leader who can bridge gaps and envision the league's future. "It's a tough job to fill for a lot of different reasons," Hunt stated. "They’re going to have to get somebody that can be a bridge builder, somebody that has a big vision for where the brand can go, and then how to monetize it and capture and take advantage of the popularity."
Among the candidates being considered is Nina King, the athletic director at Duke University. King has a proven track record in managing successful sports programs and has been at the forefront of navigating the complexities of college athletics during her tenure. Her experience includes hiring successful coaches and overseeing significant achievements across various sports at Duke.
Another notable candidate is Andrea Brimmer, who has served as the chief marketing and public relations officer at Ally Financial. Brimmer has championed investments in women's sports and has led Ally's partnerships with the WNBA and other leagues, making her a strong contender for the role.
Taj McWilliams-Franklin, a former WNBA player and current vice president of basketball operations for the Upshot League, also stands out as a potential candidate. With her extensive experience both on and off the court, she brings a unique perspective to the position.
Additionally, Swin Cash, a Hall of Fame player and former executive with the New Orleans Pelicans, is being considered. Cash's deep understanding of the WNBA as a former player, combined with her front office experience, positions her as a strong candidate for the commissioner role.
Lastly, Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, presents an unconventional option. While he would be the first male commissioner of the WNBA, his leadership experience and background in sports could offer a fresh perspective.
As the WNBA prepares for a new chapter, the selection of its next commissioner will be crucial in shaping the league's future. The candidates under consideration reflect a diverse range of experiences and expertise, each bringing their unique strengths to the table.
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