INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JULY 15: Sophie Cunningham #8 of the Indiana Fever reacts during the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 15, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
Sophie Cunningham took a shot at current WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, saying the WNBA needs a “bold” commissioner who wants the best for the league and its players, not just themselves.
This suggests Cunningham is not a fan of Engelbert’s leadership at this important time for the league, as popularity is on the rise.
A wide range of topics were discussed regarding the WNBA’s leadership and Engelbert’s future, with one source saying the commissioner position “could be open at the end of the year,” according to USA Today.
“[Cathy Engelbert] has done a lot of good things, but with where our league is trying to go, I feel like you just want someone who also wants that. That’s just a hard position to be in, in her shoes, us as players ― we always want more, more, more because we see how good it can be,” Cunningham expressed. “You do have to have a person in power who is bold, who is confident, who wants the best for the players and not maybe for themselves all the time.”
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Cunningham does not believe that a new WNBA commissioner solves the problem on its own either. She believes that the future of the WNBA is “up to Adam Silver.”
Cunningham has become one of the faces of the sport in the WNBA because she voices her opinions, even when they’re deemed controversial.
With the growing controversy of the WNBA and transgender athletes, Cunningham was one of the main stars to speak out and give their stance on the issue. She understands that even though basketball is the main focus, what she says will always be a story.
“When you do have so many eyes on you … that people can use your words for the positive. People can weaponize your words,” Cunningham said.
The Fever star will continue to be a headline as the WNBA season continues. The Fever currently sit fifth and have clinched a playoff berth.
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