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NewsWPLG Local 10November 1, 2026Miami-Dade County

WNBA Begins Offseason Search for New Commissioner Amid Relocation and Expansion Plans

Photo: WPLG Local 10

The WNBA enters its offseason following a championship win by Golden State, prioritizing the search for a new commissioner to succeed retiring outgoing leader Cathy Engelbert. The upcoming period also features a team relocation with the Connecticut Sun moving to Houston to revive the Comets, a transition to a 50-game schedule next season, and ongoing administrative focuses on officiating and player relations.

SportsBasketballLeague AdministrationTeam Relocation
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Why It Matters

The league is navigating leadership changes, facility upgrades, and franchise shifts—including a $300 million buyout involving the Houston Rockets ownership group—that alter team locations, scheduling, and operational policies for players and fans.

Key Facts

  • The WNBA is searching for a new commissioner following the retirement announcement of outgoing Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
  • The Connecticut Sun was purchased by the Houston Rockets ownership group led by Tilman Fertitta for $300 million and is relocating to Houston to revive the Houston Comets.
  • WNBA teams will play a record 50 games next season without a break for the FIBA World Cup or the Olympics.
  • The WNBA and NBA completed a multi-million dollar renovation of an official replay center in New Jersey to address officiating complaints.
  • The Houston Comets and Toronto share the best odds to win the WNBA draft lottery on Nov. 15.
  • No new expansion teams will enter next year, but Cleveland is scheduled to join in 2028, Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030.
  • The league's collective bargaining agreement states that only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA.

Who's Mentioned

locationCleveland“Entering the league as an expansion team in 2028”locationDetroit“Entering the league as an expansion team in 2029”PersonRoyce White“Former NBA player who declared eligible for the WNBA draft”OrganizationGolden State“Newly crowned WNBA champion”PersonBreanna Stewart“WNBA player commenting on the commissioner”OrganizationConnecticut Sun“WNBA team relocating to Houston”PersonTilman Fertitta“Leader of the Houston Rockets ownership group”locationToronto“Tied with Houston for the best chance in the WNBA draft lottery”locationPhiladelphia“Entering the league as an expansion team in 2030”OrganizationHouston Rockets“Ownership group that bought the Connecticut Sun”PersonEnes Kanter Freedom“Former NBA player who declared eligible for the WNBA draft”PersonCheryl Reeve“Minnesota coach serving on the officiating task force”OrganizationHouston Comets“Returning WNBA franchise based in Houston”PersonCathy Engelbert“Outgoing WNBA Commissioner retiring at the end of the calendar year”