The WNBA will seek a new commissioner with Cathy Engelbert retiring after the 2026 season. Sophie Cunningham has some qualities in mind for the league’s successor.
The Indiana Fever guard discussed what the WNBA’s next commissioner should prioritize on Monday, per The Athletic’s James Boyd.
“The WNBA has always been a place for people to feel safe and comfortable. I think there are all types of walks in this league, which I think is absolutely awesome,” Cunningham said. “But I do think with that, you need someone who’s gonna unite everybody because it can be so different.”
Cunningham, who sparked controversy with her stance against transgender athletes in women’s sports, called it fun to play alongside people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
“With all the diversity, you do need someone who is gonna unite our league and have a common goal and get us all on the same page,” Cunningham said. “I think that’s super important.”
“Our league is booming”
Steven Bisig-Imagn Images.
Additionally, Cunningham feels the WNBA needs a commissioner who cares about the players. Some WNBA players have questioned Engelbert’s commitment to them, with Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier calling her “negligent” last year.
“You need a commissioner who is players first, who wants a relationship with their players, Cunningham said. “I think that’s so important. That doesn’t mean we’re always gonna get along, we’re always going to agree. They have a job. They work for the owners, so they’re going to have to make hard decisions. But if you have that open line of communication, that respect level, I think that it just feels different.”
That said, Cunningham has no recommendations. The 30-year-old replied, “God no” when asked if she has any commissioner candidates in mind.
However, Cunningham recalled positive conversations with NBA commissioner Adam Silver that have her confident the WNBA will find the right person.
“I think he’s gonna put someone in place who really wants to even take our league to another level than it’s already at,” Cunningham said. “Our league is booming, so why would we not want someone who’s gonna try to make it even more booming? And I think he’s going to do that, so I’m super excited.”
