Sophie Cunningham identifies biggest priority for next WNBA commissioner

Sophie Cunningham wants the WNBA’s next commissioner to begin with one difficult assignment: Bring everyone together. The Indiana Fever guard addressed the league’s looming leadership change after practice Monday. Cathy Engelbert announced Sept. 4 that she will retire at the end of the year following more than seven years as commissioner.

When asked what the next leader should prioritize, Cunningham pointed to unity.

“The WNBA has always been a place for people to feel safe and comfortable,” Cunningham said.  “I think there are all types of walks in this league, which I think is absolutely awesome, but I think you need someone who is going to unite everybody.”

Her answer arrives during a transformative period for the league.

Next WNBA commissioner will inherit major decisions

The WNBA is experiencing unprecedented attention, growing attendance and increasing television interest. That momentum creates enormous opportunities, but it also raises the stakes surrounding several unresolved issues.

Player salaries, travel conditions, practice facilities, officiating and future expansion will all demand attention from the next commissioner.

Cunningham has been vocal about some of those concerns.

During the debut episode of her “No Hesitation” podcast with Drew Hanlen, Cunningham joked that she should become commissioner. She also outlined one immediate change she would make: ensuring every WNBA organization has a functional practice facility.

Not every franchise currently offers identical working conditions. That disparity has become increasingly difficult to defend as the league grows and attracts more revenue.

Cunningham has also said the WNBA needs a leader who is bold, confident and focused on what is best for the players.

MORE: Sophie Cunningham calls out Caitlin Clark critics with blunt WNBA message

Unity does not mean avoiding difficult conversations

Cunningham’s emphasis on unity is notable because WNBA players come from different backgrounds and hold a wide range of beliefs. Creating unity would not mean eliminating disagreement. It would require a commissioner capable of maintaining trust while navigating difficult negotiations and making decisions that affect players, owners and fans.

The league’s next leader will also be responsible for building on its current momentum without losing sight of the players who made that growth possible. Cunningham has never been reluctant to offer an opinion. This time, however, her message was less about one specific policy and more about the type of leader the WNBA requires.

More WNBA news:

• Playoff picture, remaining schedules and key games as WNBA season resumes
• Enes Freedom ejected after confrontation with Natasha Cloud during Fever-Sky showdown
• Aliyah Boston delivers perfect reaction to Caitlin Clark’s career night

The next commissioner must be willing to listen, make difficult decisions and connect a league that is changing rapidly.