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Engelbert’s Draft Exchange Draws Fire as WNBA Enters Crucial Growth Phase

The flap threatens momentum during a high-profile expansion push.

Overview

  • At the WNBA draft, a New York Post reporter asked Cathy Engelbert how long she plans to stay in the job.
  • Engelbert replied that such a question would not be asked of a man, which triggered widespread criticism.
  • ESPN’s Dan Wetzel wrote that commissioners routinely face hard questions and said her response shifted focus off the league.
  • The exchange resurfaced concern over player relations after Napheesa Collier said Engelbert once told Caitlin Clark to feel grateful for off-court income.
  • The league is entering a growth stretch with a new labor deal, a larger media-rights package, and new teams in Portland and Toronto, so leaders face pressure to keep attention on the court.