Cathy Engelbert's tenure as WNBA commissioner is concluding, with her retirement announced for the end of this year after a groundbreaking seven years as the league's first commissioner. Engelbert's hiring in 2019 marked a pivotal shift, as NBA commissioner Adam Silver aimed to elevate the WNBA's status among major U.S. sports leagues. Under her leadership, the WNBA witnessed significant growth, highlighted by:

• Multiple collective bargaining agreements, including a recent deal raising the salary cap to $7 million and introducing the first million-dollar salaries in league history.
• An expansion initiative that brought in three new teams: Golden State Valkyries, Portland Fire, and Toronto Tempo, with plans for three more teams by 2030, increasing the league to 18 teams.

Despite these achievements, Engelbert faced criticism over her relationship with players, culminating in Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier stating, "We have the best players in the world... but right now we have the worst leadership in the world."

As Engelbert prepares to step down, speculation about her successor arises. She has hinted at a succession plan involving both internal and external candidates. Potential successors include:

• Bethany Donaphin: Current Head of League Operations with prior playing experience.
• Swin Cash: Former WNBA player and Hall of Famer with executive experience.
• Marc Tatum: NBA deputy commissioner with extensive experience overseeing the WNBA.
• Amy Brooks: President of Global Business Development at the NBA, focusing on international growth.
• Nneka Ogwumike: Current player and president of the Women's National Basketball Players Association, though she has expressed doubts about her qualifications for the role.

The next commissioner will need to navigate the complexities of maintaining the league's business successes while fostering a better relationship with the players.