Cathy Engelbert Dismissed as WNBA Commissioner After Referee Allegations of Anti-Caitlin Clark Bias Surface
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the world of women’s basketball, Cathy Engelbert has been dismissed from her role as WNBA commissioner. The decision comes amid growing controversy and allegations from league referees that an “anti-Caitlin Clark agenda” has influenced officiating throughout the 2025 season. The fallout has also drawn in players like Sophie Cunningham, who has spoken out about the league’s internal dynamics and treatment of its rising stars.
Referees Blow the Whistle on League Bias
The controversy began when a group of veteran WNBA referees anonymously leaked documents and recordings to the media, claiming that league officials had encouraged a stricter approach to officiating games involving Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s breakout rookie guard. According to the referees, directives were allegedly given to “manage the hype” surrounding Clark by calling games more tightly or overlooking fouls committed against her.
“We were told to keep the games under control and not let one player dominate the narrative,” one referee reportedly stated in a leaked memo. “But it quickly became clear that this was about Caitlin Clark and the attention she was bringing to the league.”
Cathy Engelbert’s Response and Dismissal
Cathy Engelbert, who had served as WNBA commissioner since 2019, initially denied the allegations, calling them “unfounded and damaging to the integrity of the league.” However, as more evidence surfaced and public pressure mounted, the WNBA Board of Governors convened an emergency meeting. In a brief statement, the board announced Engelbert’s immediate dismissal, citing “a loss of confidence in her ability to lead the league with fairness and transparency.”
Engelbert’s tenure was marked by significant growth in league popularity, record-setting TV ratings, and a surge in attendance—much of it credited to the arrival of stars like Clark. However, critics argue that the league struggled to adapt to the new spotlight and the challenges that came with it.
Sophie Cunningham Speaks Out
Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham added fuel to the fire by publicly supporting the referees’ claims and calling for greater accountability within the league. “We’ve all seen how Caitlin gets treated on the court,” Cunningham said in a recent interview. “She’s brought so many new fans to the game, but instead of protecting her, there’s been this weird resistance. It’s time for the WNBA to embrace change and treat every player fairly.”
Cunningham’s comments resonated with many players and fans who have voiced concerns about inconsistent officiating and the league’s handling of its young stars.
A Turning Point for the WNBA
The scandal has sparked a wider debate about the pressures facing women’s sports as they enter the mainstream. While the WNBA has made significant strides in recent years, the Clark controversy highlights the growing pains that come with increased attention and expectations.
League officials have announced the formation of an independent panel to investigate the allegations and recommend reforms to ensure transparency and fairness in officiating. In the meantime, interim leadership has pledged to restore trust and focus on supporting the league’s athletes.
Looking Forward
As the WNBA moves forward from this crisis, many hope that the league will learn from the controversy and emerge stronger. Caitlin Clark, for her part, has remained focused on her game, telling reporters, “I just want to play basketball and inspire the next generation. I trust the league will do what’s right.”
With the eyes of the sports world watching closely, the WNBA faces a pivotal moment—one that could define its future for years to come.
