# WNBA Commissioner Search Intensifies as Engelbert Addresses Player Safety

> Cathy Engelbert prepares to step down after WNBA player safety concerns and league backlash.
- Title: WNBA Commissioner Search Intensifies as Engelbert Addresses…
- Summary: Cathy Engelbert prepares to step down after WNBA player safety concerns and league backlash. Cathy Engelbert will step down as WNBA commissioner by December…
- Keywords: wnba, cathy engelbert, commissions, player safety, league backlash, finals game 1, golden state valkyries, atlanta dream, sports, Commissioner, Search, Intensifies
- Source: EssentiallySports — https://essentiallysports.com/wnba-basketball-news-wnba-commissioner-search-takes-center-stage-as-cathy-engelbert-addresses-player-safety-league-backlash-more-before-finals-game-1
- Author: Olutayo Inioluwa Emmanuel
- Published: 2026-10-18T00:21:09+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: wnba, cathy engelbert, commissions, player safety, league backlash, finals game 1, golden state valkyries, atlanta dream, sports
## Cathy Engelbert's Commission Start
Cathy Engelbert became the WNBA’s first commissioner on July 17, 2019.
## Business Growth Under Engelbert
Engelbert drove a $3.1 billion broadcasting rights deal and expanded the WNBA from 12 to 18 teams by 2030.
## Player Safety Concerns
Napheesa Collier criticized Engelbert’s leadership for player safety and league backlash.
## Engelbert's Leadership Critique
Collier called the WNBA’s leadership the worst in the world despite strong players and fans.

> We have the best players in the world. We have the best fans in the world, but right now we have the worst leadership in the world.
## Reactive Leadership Approach
Engelbert had a reactive approach to player safety issues instead of proactive solutions.
## Commissioner Search Process
The NBA hired Excel Search & Advisory to find Engelbert’s successor by December 31.
## Finals Game 1 Context
The Golden State Valkyries host the Atlanta Dream for Game 2 on Monday, 8 p.m. ET.
## Key takeaway

Cathy Engelbert will step down as WNBA commissioner by December 31 after addressing player safety and league backlash.