The tension around WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert continues to build, and now Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham has added her voice to the conversation. Cunningham is the latest player to publicly call out the commissioner, joining a growing number of stars who have questioned Engelbert’s leadership and direction for the league.
Her remarks come at a time when the WNBA is already under the spotlight. Several players, including household names, have recently voiced concerns ranging from league management to how the commissioner has handled critical decisions. Cunningham’s decision to speak up adds more weight to the narrative that discontent is spreading within the locker rooms.
For the WNBA, the criticisms raise pressing questions about leadership at the highest level. Engelbert has been credited with steering the league through growth opportunities, including expanded media rights and increased visibility, but the steady stream of player frustration suggests a gap between leadership and the athletes driving the game.
Fans and analysts are now closely watching to see how Engelbert responds to this wave of criticism. Cunningham’s voice, paired with others before her, could signal that player dissatisfaction is no longer isolated but part of a much larger issue the league can’t ignore.
