Cathy Engelbert is the current commissioner of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She was appointed in May 2019 and officially began leading the league on July 17, 2019.
Engelbert brought more than 30 years of business and leadership experience to the role. Before joining the WNBA, she served as CEO of Deloitte and became the first woman to lead a major U.S. professional-services firm.
Who Is Cathy Engelbert?
Cathy Engelbert is an American business executive and former college athlete. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Lehigh University, where she played basketball and lacrosse.
Her experience as both an athlete and a corporate leader helped position her to oversee the WNBA during a pivotal period for women’s sports. Her background includes organizational leadership, revenue growth, technology, partnerships and workforce development.
When Did Cathy Engelbert Become WNBA Commissioner?
The WNBA announced Engelbert’s appointment on May 15, 2019. She formally assumed the position on July 17 after completing her term as Deloitte’s CEO.
Engelbert was also the first person to hold the official title of WNBA commissioner. Previous league leaders used the title “president.”
What Does the WNBA Commissioner Do?
The WNBA commissioner oversees the league’s overall business and strategic direction. The role includes responsibilities such as:
- Supporting league and franchise growth
- Expanding media coverage and fan engagement
- Developing commercial partnerships
- Working with team owners and league executives
- Overseeing expansion and major league initiatives
- Representing the WNBA publicly
- Working with players and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association
The commissioner also plays an important role in decisions involving competition, scheduling, labor relations and the long-term development of professional women’s basketball.
Cathy Engelbert’s Leadership of the WNBA
Engelbert has led the WNBA during a period of growing attention, investment and demand for women’s basketball. Her leadership has focused on increasing the league’s visibility, strengthening its business model and creating more opportunities for players and fans.
League expansion has also been a significant part of this growth. The WNBA awarded Toronto its first franchise outside the United States, with the team beginning play in 2026.
Cathy Engelbert’s Career Before the WNBA
Before becoming WNBA commissioner, Engelbert spent more than three decades at Deloitte. She was elected CEO in 2015 and led an organization employing more than 100,000 professionals in the United States.
During her tenure, Deloitte invested in emerging technologies and expanded its business. Engelbert also promoted workplace initiatives, including an expanded family-leave program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the WNBA commissioner right now?
Cathy Engelbert is the current WNBA commissioner.
How long has Cathy Engelbert been WNBA commissioner?
Engelbert officially began serving as commissioner on July 17, 2019.
Who was the WNBA commissioner before Cathy Engelbert?
Before Engelbert’s appointment, the league’s top executive held the title of WNBA president. Lisa Borders served as president from 2016 to 2018.
Was Cathy Engelbert a basketball player?
Yes. Engelbert played college basketball at Lehigh University and served as a senior captain. She also played lacrosse.
What did Cathy Engelbert do before joining the WNBA?
She served as CEO of Deloitte, becoming the first woman to lead a major professional-services firm in the United States.
The Bottom Line
Cathy Engelbert is the WNBA commissioner and has led the league since July 2019. Her combination of business experience and personal connection to basketball has shaped her approach to growing the league, supporting its athletes and expanding the reach of women’s professional basketball.
Sources: WNBA announcement of Cathy Engelbert’s appointment and the WNBA’s Toronto expansion announcement.