Phoenix Mercury guard Sophie Cunningham has publicly outlined her expectations for the next WNBA commissioner, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and relatability. In comments reported Friday, Cunningham stated the league's next leader "needs to have a backbone" and should "be a normal human," drawing a comparison to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's tenure as a benchmark for effective governance.
The remarks come as the WNBA continues its search for a permanent commissioner following Cathy Engelbert's departure. Cunningham, a vocal presence in the league, highlighted the importance of a commissioner who can navigate the WNBA's growth trajectory while maintaining connection with players. Her reference to Silver underscores a desire for leadership that balances business acumen with player-centric policies.
