Sophie Cunningham, guard for the Indiana Fever, recently spoke with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver about the upcoming vacancy for the WNBA commissioner position. Cunningham noted Silver's extensive knowledge and insight regarding the future leadership of the league. "I have talked to Adam Silver a couple times, and I think he’s a great guy. He was very knowledgeable and full of wisdom," Cunningham said.
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Cathy Engelbert has confirmed her retirement from the commissioner role at the end of the year. Although the NBA did not provide details on their conversation, Cunningham emphasized the importance of selecting a successor who can elevate the league further. "Our league is booming, so why would we not want someone who’s going to make it even more booming?" she remarked.
Cunningham has become a notable figure this season, particularly due to her stance against transgender athletes competing in women's sports, facing backlash but remaining firm in her beliefs. She expressed the need for the next WNBA commissioner to be a unifying leader. "The WNBA has always been a place for people to feel safe and comfortable... I think it makes it a lot of fun," said Cunningham.
She highlighted the importance of growth and understanding within the league, inviting a leader who can unite its diversity while continuing to drive progress. Despite previous criticisms of Engelbert's handling of certain off-court challenges, her tenure has also seen significant achievements, including a lucrative TV deal and improvements for player travel.
The Fever, meanwhile, are looking forward to the return of All-Stars Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, along with coach Stephanie White, who recently contributed to the U.S. gold-medal victory at the World Cup in Berlin. Indiana resumes play on Friday against Toronto.