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Basketball
Outgoing WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert reflected on record-breaking growth and confirmed a search firm is vetting candidates to succeed her as she prepares to step down.
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Cathy Engelbert addressed the media ahead of Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, painting a picture of a league transformed. The outgoing commissioner - who took the reins in July 2019 - pointed to a season of unprecedented numbers: more than 90 million unique viewers in the United States, over 320 million hours of basketball consumed, and a record average of 11,500 fans per game.
Nearly two-thirds of regular-season fixtures were sell-outs, while digital and social media engagement topped 4 billion views - a 28% jump on the previous campaign.
Under Engelbert's watch, the WNBA grew from 12 to 15 teams, with ambitions to reach 18 by 2030. She oversaw two collective bargaining agreements and introduced charter flights for teams - a move long demanded by players.
Still, the ride wasn't entirely smooth. Engelbert acknowledged friction with players during recent CBA talks, stressing the value of strong advisors and a capable team to steer through difficult moments.
Having announced her retirement in September, Engelbert revealed she has been planning her departure for more than three years. A search firm is now actively vetting candidates, and interest in the role has been considerable.
The job, she said, is "multi-dimensional" and demands thick skin and confidence. She expressed pride in the organisation she built around her, which expanded from 12 staff members to nearly 100 during her tenure.
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Eva Hernández, Editor-in-Chief
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