Recent reports from the WNBA do not paint a promising picture for WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. She remains firmly in her role, despite growing dissatisfaction among players and team owners. Several franchise owners reportedly develop tense relationships with her, all against the backdrop of complex collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations.
Terrika Foster-Brasby, interviewed on WNBA on NBC, recently addressed the situation. According to Essentiallysports, she said, “There’s a lot to unpack in these discussions because they are very nuanced given the particular part of the CBA conversation we’re having.” Her statement underscores the challenge of balancing the interests of players, owners, and the league itself.
Analyzing the current situation
The WNBA’s economic growth has been remarkable. Deloitte projects that revenues will exceed $1 billion this year. This growth comes from record-breaking viewership, which drove a 500% increase in merchandise sales, as well as a $50 million investment in charter flights.
Cathy Engelbert ,commissioner of the WNBA getting booed during the championship trophy presentation . Had you treated Caitlin Clark in the Indiana fever more fair, you would have the biggest fan base in the league by far defending you online 😂😂😂
pic.twitter.com/HgI9J3M26q— Michael (@mikeaalen112735) October 11, 2025
However, profit distribution remains a critical issue. Economists like David Berri note that young stars, including Caitlin Clark, Collier, and Wilson, could earn over $3 million per year—but only if their contracts mirrored the NBA’s revenue percentages. Currently, they earn roughly 10% less.
Owners seek sustainable models that allow team profitability, while players demand a larger share of actual league revenues. A lack of transparency regarding income complicates negotiations. The risk of a lockout grows as the October 31 deadline approaches.
The league’s growth has been impressive: in 2022, it secured $75 million in capital, followed by $925 million in new franchise fees over the past three years. Last year alone, the WNBA generated $76 million in sponsorship revenue. Engelbert has repeatedly pledged to increase salaries and benefits, while balancing owner investments and team profitability.
Some players, like Collier, have made strong criticisms of the league’s leadership, calling it “the worst in the world.” Despite this, Engelbert continues to hold her position. While some owners may consider a change, there is no indication she will step down.
