WNBA Commissioner Faces Backlash Over Comments

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert managed to divert attention from the league’s draft night, which received prime time coverage on ESPN. However, it was her remarks during the pre-draft press conference that caught the eyes of many online.

Engelbert made waves with her unexpected reply to a straightforward question posed by New York Post reporter Madeline Kenney. Kenney simply asked, “How much longer do you plan to serve in this role?”

In response, Engelbert shifted the conversation dramatically. “It really pisses me off that people are paying attention to me,” she started. She then emphasized the many women working alongside her in the league, noting the hard work they put in as they approach their 30th season.

Interestingly, Engelbert also challenged the question’s relevance, suggesting it’s unlikely reporters would ask similar questions of male commissioners. “By the way, I wonder if you would ask a man a question like that,” she said, adding, “As women, we recognize that we get asked different questions than men.”

Kenney quickly stated that she would indeed ask a male commissioner the same question, but Engelbert’s remarks didn’t resonate well online. Many fans and journalists highlighted how often major sports commissioners are questioned about their roles and job security.

One observer noted, “Hasn’t she seen people asking the same of commissioners across the board?” while another simply stated that asking about her tenure was reasonable.

Sports journalists, including some who usually align left politically, expressed support for questioning Engelbert. One journalist commented that if a male had her track record, he would certainly face similar inquiries.

In fact, multiple reporters, including women, critiqued Engelbert’s reaction, suggesting it was an attempt to deflect from legitimate concerns about her position. Another journalist pointed out that male commissioners frequently field questions about their futures, deeming Kenney’s inquiry entirely valid.

Much like Engelbert, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman often has to preemptively address speculations about his resignation, responding directly when asked about his plans. Recently, Bettman firmly said there was no chance he’d resign despite ongoing pressure.

In the realm of sports, it’s common for commissioners like the NFL’s Roger Goodell to be questioned about resignations, particularly in light of scandals. Engelbert’s reaction, therefore, seemed out of step with the norms of sports leadership.