Story perspectives

Sophie Cunningham urges players-first unity for WNBA’s next commissioner

By Drooid · Sep 15, 2026, 11:09 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Cunningham Urges Unity

Sophie Cunningham said she discussed commissioner criteria with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced she will retire on Dec. 31, 2026.
Cunningham said the next commissioner must unite the league and adopt a players-first approach.
She added the commissioner should keep an open door and respect players while making hard decisions.
Cunningham noted the league is booming and the new commissioner should further expand its popularity.

Summary

Engelbert Negotiates CBA

League secures 2026 media rights deal exceeding $3 billion, boosting revenue growth.
Engelbert negotiates new collective bargaining agreement that introduces million-dollar player salaries.
WNBA announces plan to expand from 12 to 18 teams by 2030 under incoming commissioner.
Cunningham says back-to-back games raise salary costs, sparking schedule-restructuring debate.
Fans stage anti-trans rallies at Fever venues after Cunningham’s remarks, reflecting heightened tension.

History

Historical Context

The WNBA began in 1997 with eight teams and a $12 million TV contract under NBA ownership. A 2024 media rights deal raised annual earnings to about $200 million, and a 2025 expansion plan targets 18 teams by 2030. Player Sophie Cunningham urges this goal as commissioner Cathy Engelbert prepares to depart in 2026.

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Cunningham Urges Unity

Sophie Cunningham said she discussed commissioner criteria with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced she will retire on Dec. 31, 2026.
Cunningham said the next commissioner must unite the league and adopt a players-first approach.
She added the commissioner should keep an open door and respect players while making hard decisions.
Cunningham noted the league is booming and the new commissioner should further expand its popularity.

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