Sophie Cunningham Consults With Adam Silver on Next WNBA Commissioner

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham confirmed she has spoken with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver regarding the search for a new WNBA leader.

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham revealed Monday that she has held multiple discussions with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver regarding the search for the next WNBA commissioner. The vacancy follows current commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s recent announcement that she will retire at the end of the year. During a practice session held amid the women’s FIBA World Cup break, Cunningham noted that Silver reached out to her to hear player perspectives on the league's future leadership.

Cunningham emphasized the need for a "players-first" leader who can serve as a unifier for the league's diverse roster. While the NBA declined to specify the exact details of the conversations, Cunningham advocated for a commissioner who prioritizes open communication and maintains a growth mindset. She also suggested that the league evaluate scheduling issues, such as the elimination of back-to-back games, to improve the on-court product.

The search for a new leader comes as the WNBA experiences significant growth in television ratings, merchandise sales, and ticket interest following the 2024 selection of Caitlin Clark as the No. 1 overall pick. Engelbert’s tenure included securing charter flights for teams and a new collective bargaining agreement. The Fever are currently preparing to resume play Friday in Toronto, awaiting the return of coach Stephanie White and All-Stars Clark and Aliyah Boston from their gold-medal run in Berlin.