Adam Silver Commends WNBA’s New Agreement

On Wednesday, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his approval of the WNBA’s recently established collective bargaining agreement, describing it as a “fair outcome” for both parties involved.

He acknowledged the efforts of WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, noting the “great job” she has done during her six-and-a-half years in the role. Still, there are lingering questions about her future job security.

When asked if Engelbert would retain her position past the 2026 season, Silver remarked, “We haven’t had those discussions yet with the WNBA Board of Governors.” He added, “What I can say is that Cathy has performed exceptionally well since she took charge. It’s evident when you watch the league.”

The recent achievement for the WNBA is the transformative CBA, which was ratified this week. For the first time, it features a salary system linked directly to revenue growth, alongside enhanced player benefits, minimum standards for team facilities, and severance packages.

Silver mentioned that “people were very happy” after the WNBA’s eight-day negotiating marathon earlier this month concluded successfully, allowing the league to avoid any disruptions before the 2026 season. “I spoke directly to many players and reviewed reports from the collective bargaining sessions. It’s great that both sides reached what they view as a fair agreement,” he said.

As the CBA approaches completion—pending finalization of the legally binding document—questions about Engelbert’s future remain. Silver has not shed much light on the situation.

Engelbert was appointed as the WNBA’s first commissioner in 2019 and has navigated through two significant CBA negotiations and the pandemic-affected 2020 “Wubble” season. Under her guidance, the league has seen impressive growth, largely thanks to talents like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers.

However, Engelbert has faced criticism during the prolonged labor negotiations lasting over 17 months. For instance, after the Lynx’s season concluded, player Napheesa Collier criticized Engelbert, claiming that the WNBA has “the worst leadership in the world.” The vice president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association also indicated that the true threat facing the league isn’t financial but a lack of accountability at the top.

While Engelbert is recognized for her business skills, concerns about her connection with players, particularly the league’s top stars, have been raised.

A significant controversy during her tenure was the sale of a 16 percent stake in the league for $75 million in 2022, a move many viewed as ill-timed when the WNBA required financial support. Since that sale, though, the league’s popularity has surged, with franchise values, viewership, attendance, and social media engagement hitting unprecedented levels.

It’s uncertain if Engelbert desires to continue as the WNBA’s CEO beyond this season. Silver commented, “Kathy and I haven’t recently discussed future plans or our long-term visions.” He added, quite positively, “Her past achievements before joining the WNBA as CEO of Deloitte speak volumes. The current results clearly reflect our success, and both I and the ownership group are pleased with the direction of the WNBA.”