Active Phase of Leadership Search
The WNBA has officially transitioned its search for a new commissioner into an active phase, with league officials conducting in-person interviews over the past two weeks. As reported by The Athletic, the process is now moving toward a conclusion ahead of outgoing commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s scheduled departure at the end of 2026. Following the league’s annual fall competition committee meeting in New York, Engelbert characterized the search as a “normal process,” confirming that interviews are underway and stating, “I hope so,” when asked if a successor would be named by the December 31 deadline.
Search Process and Contingency Planning
The search efforts gained significant momentum in October after the NBA engaged Excel Search & Advisory to manage the initial vetting of applicants. According to multiple sources cited by The Athletic, the league has moved beyond the initial candidate pool and is now focused on direct, face-to-face evaluations. NBA commissioner Adam Silver initially noted in mid-September that the league had begun receiving interest from potential candidates immediately following the announcement of Engelbert’s retirement.
The transition timeline remains a primary focus for the league’s governance. Should the WNBA fail to secure a permanent replacement by the close of the year, NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum is positioned to serve as the interim leader. Tatum previously held a similar role during the 2019 transition period following the departure of former league president Lisa Borders. The current search remains an ongoing institutional priority as the league prepares for a change in its top executive office.