Sophie Cunningham Calls Out Cathy Engelbert, Says WNBA Needs 'Bold' Commissioner Sophie Cunningham, a prominent WNBA player, has publicly criticized Cathy Engelbert, the league’s commissioner, arguing that the WNBA requires a more assertive leader who prioritizes the interests of players over personal ambitions. Cunningham’s remarks, shared with USA Today, highlight her belief that Engelbert’s leadership has not fully aligned with the league’s potential. “You do have to have a person in power who is bold, who is confident, who wants the best for the players and not maybe for themselves all the time,” Cunningham stated. While acknowledging Engelbert’s contributions, she emphasized the need for a commissioner who actively supports players as “trailblazers” for women’s leagues. Engelbert, in her seventh season as commissioner, has faced mounting scrutiny from players despite her efforts to expand the WNBA’s reach. Cunningham’s criticism comes amid broader tensions within the league, where players have repeatedly called for stronger leadership. The WNBA has experienced significant growth since Engelbert took over in 2019, but Cunningham and others argue that the league’s trajectory remains constrained by its current leadership. “With where our league is trying to go, I feel like you just want someone who also wants that,” Cunningham said, noting the challenge of balancing player demands with organizational goals. The debate over leadership has intensified following Cunningham’s controversial stance on transgender athletes. In July 2026, she advocated for barring transgender women from participating in women’s sports, a position that sparked widespread protests and rallies within the WNBA community. While the league is known for its support of LGBTQ+ rights, Cunningham’s comments led to polarized reactions.#wnba #cathy_engelbert #sophie_cunningham #aja_wilson #napheesa_collier
Minnesota Lynx and Dallas Wings Prepare for High-Stakes Regular-Season Finale The Minnesota Lynx and Dallas Wings are set to face off in their fourth and final regular-season matchup on Sunday, with both teams aiming to secure key victories as the WNBA season approaches its conclusion. The game, scheduled for Sunday afternoon in Minneapolis, will mark a quick turnaround for the Lynx, who will play just 24 hours after defeating the Las Vegas Aces 98-87 on Saturday. The Wings, meanwhile, seek to end a three-game losing streak following consecutive setbacks to the Las Vegas Aces and Golden State Valkyries. The Lynx, led by veteran forward Napheesa Collier and rookie point guard Olivia Miles, have taken a different approach to the pregame routine. Collier, who is also a mother to a young daughter named Mila, expressed her intention to enjoy the weekend by playing dress-up and chasing her daughter around the house. “Well, it’s a weekend, so I won’t be in bed for a while,” Collier said with a smile. In contrast, Miles opted for a more relaxed plan, stating she would watch film and prioritize getting to sleep on time. The Lynx, currently sitting at 26-7, have shown resilience in recent weeks, securing 11 wins in their last 12 games. Their recent victory over the Aces came after a loss to the Los Angeles Sparks on Thursday, a setback that coach Cheryl Reeve addressed. Reeve praised her team’s response, noting that they “found their footing after the first quarter” and held opponents to 37% shooting in the second half. “Points in the paint had a lot to do with that,” Reeve explained, highlighting the team’s focus on defensive adjustments. For the Wings, the challenge lies in addressing their recent struggles against high-scoring opponents.#paige_bueckers #minnesota_lynx #dallas_wings #cheryl_reeve #napheesa_collier
