Sophie Cunningham: Next WNBA commissioner must be a unifier, after talks with Adam Silver

Sophie Cunningham, the Indiana Fever guard, has spoken about the qualities she wants to see in the next WNBA commissioner, with the position set to become vacant at the end of the year following Cathy Engelbert’s resignation announcement.

As reported by Bleacher Report, Cunningham said she has spoken several times with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who contacted her about the matter; she mentioned that Silver gave her advice and perspective on how he approaches leading the league. The NBA has not commented in detail on the content of the conversations between Silver and Cunningham.

Cunningham emphasized that the league needs a leader who unites players and the various stakeholders. She wants someone who puts players first and creates an open line of communication, even when difficult decisions must be made that serve team owners. She has also been clear about her personal convictions, which have sparked debate and reactions to her stances on the participation of transgender athletes in women’s competitions.

She noted that the WNBA is growing in public profile and commercial interest, particularly since Caitlin Clark was selected first overall in the 2024 draft; ticket sales, merchandise and television viewership have all increased. Engelbert leaves behind several achievements, such as the new television contract, the collective bargaining agreement and the introduction of charter flights for teams. Cunningham also proposed discussing whether back-to-back games affect the quality of play and salary-cap plans.

Indiana is expected to welcome back stars Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, as well as coach Stephanie White, who were part of the U.S. team that won the gold medal in Berlin; the Fever return to the court on Friday in Toronto, according to Bleacher Report.