​Photo by Elsa/Getty ImagesAdam Silver is already hard at work on finding a replacement for Cathy Engelbert in the WNBA.Cathy Engelbert will retire as WNBA commissioner at the end of 2026, ending a seven-year run.Despite many successes, Engelbert faced heavy criticism toward the end of her tenure over her handling of cultural controversies.As debates erupted over transgender athlete eligibility, critics slammed her refusal to provide a clear definition of a “woman,” leaving the league caught in the crossfire. By trying to appease both sides, Engelbert was accused of weak leadership, ultimately darkening her legacy.Adam Silver handed a list of names to replace Cathy EngelbertHowever, it looks as if Cathy Engelbert‘s job is far from over.According to The IX Sports, Cathy Engelbert will lead a succession plan that she’s been working on for three years, and has already submitted a list of both internal and external candidates to WNBA owners and NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who will make the final determination on her successor.The NBA commissioner also made a statement on Cathy Engelbert’s departure:“Cathy has presided over the WNBA through the most significant period of growth in the league’s 30-year history. We are grateful for Cathy’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the advancement of women’s basketball.”Given the current firestorm involving Enes Kanter, Royce White and the watching eyes of fans with the transgender debate, there will be plenty of pressure on Engelbert’s replacement.Read more:‘Can’t even define what a woman is’ – Cathy Engelbert’s retirement decision sparks strong reaction from WNBA fansCaitlin Clark makes statement after breaking Team USA FIBA World Cup record Cathy Engelbert reveals why she’s retiring as commissioner of the WNBA