WNBA's Engelbert Sidesteps 2027 Job Question as League Unveils Replay Center for 2027
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jul 26
WNBA's Engelbert Sidesteps 2027 Job Question as League Unveils Replay Center for 2027
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jul 26
Summary
Chicago — Cathy Engelbert declined to say whether she expects to remain commissioner for the 2027 season, saying only that she will keep executing a strategy she said is working.
More than 20 owners, executives, players and insiders recently told ESPN her leadership is under growing scrutiny despite strong business growth, and multiple team sources believe 2026 will likely be her last season.
2027 will also bring a centralized replay center in Secaucus, New Jersey — a major basketball-operations investment aimed at improving officiating consistency, efficiency and transparency after sustained complaints.
The league also said its outside investigation into the Las Vegas Aces, opened in May 2024 over alleged salary-cap circumvention, found insufficient evidence and will not result in discipline.
Earlier this week, Engelbert met players over harassment, security and officiating concerns; both sides called the talks hopeful, while she acknowledged the league must communicate better.