What happened: The WNBA said the move takes effect Dec. 31, after the 2026 season. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced the decision Friday.

Why it matters: The transition puts new leadership in charge of the league’s expansion and labor agenda. The next commissioner will inherit a collective bargaining agreement that introduced the WNBA’s first million-dollar salaries.

What to watch: Engelbert will help lead the succession process, with internal and external candidates under consideration.