WNBA Commissioner Misses the Layup: A Critical Look at Women's Sports

Women's sports have made tremendous progress in recent years, with growing investment, expansion, and fan interest. However, a recent statement by WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlights the challenges still faced by women in sports. Engelbert's response to a question about racism and misogyny on social media was seen as lacking support for her players. This missed opportunity to address the issue has sparked frustration among star players and the players' union. The WNBA has achieved significant success under Engelbert's leadership, including a new collective bargaining agreement and record-breaking viewership. However, her failure to address the issue of racism and misogyny on social media raises questions about her commitment to her players and the league's overall mission. What if Engelbert's assumption that the league is making progress on this issue is wrong? What might the author have missed in her analysis of the situation? The WNBA is not alone in its struggles with racism and misogyny. The NFL's handling of the Deshaun Watson contract is another example of how sports organizations can prioritize business over people. Watson's contract, which includes a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal, has been criticized for its lack of accountability and support for victims of sexual misconduct. Can we assume that the Browns' decision to stand by Watson was solely based on his on-field performance, or was it influenced by other factors? Did the team consider the potential consequences of its actions on its players and fans? In a different context, the United States men's soccer team has hired a new coach, Mauricio Pochettino, who has been praised for his ability to bring competitiveness and fire to the team. However, his hiring has also raised questions about his ability to connect with American players and fans. Can Pochettino's success be replicated in the women's game, and what lessons can be learned from his approach? The article also touches on the retirement of soccer star Alex Morgan, who has announced her plans to invest in women's sports. Morgan's commitment to empowering women in sports is admirable, but what steps can be taken to support her efforts? In other news, the Boston Fleet, the new name for the hometown PWHL team, has been met with mixed reactions. While some fans are excited about the change, others are disappointed that the team did not choose a more unique or creative name. What do you think about the name change, and what factors should be considered when choosing a team name?