Stephen Curry says WNBA needs to keep conversations about the league 'focused on basketball'
NBA superstar and women's sports investor Stephen Curry says he hopes the WNBA's next leader keeps conversations about the league "focused on basketball."
Speaking at Bethpage Black Golf Course during the Curry Cup, his annual youth golf competition, the Golden State Warriors guard told CNBC that some of the storylines coming out of the WNBA this season are "unfortunate," as basketball has at times been overshadowed by political and cultural controversies.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced Sept. 4 that she will retire at the end of 2026. Her tenure was marked by major economic gains for the league and a new collective bargaining agreement, but she was criticized for her handling of player concerns.
"Let's make it about basketball," Curry said. "I think whatever the new leadership that comes in, knowing that Cathy's on her way out, that's going to be the biggest part of the job."
Curry went on to praise the WNBA and its players, as the league is seeing record attendance and television ratings.
"Let's celebrate these amazing women who are great ambassadors of the game, and let's focus on the product," he added.
Curry, a four-time NBA champion entering his 18th season in the league, has long supported women's sports. He is an investor in the women's 3-on-3 basketball league Unrivaled.
Curry was also asked about recruiting women for his own signature line, Curry Brand. Bloomberg reported that Curry grew frustrated with Under Armour after the company failed to make a more aggressive effort to pursue basketball superstar Caitlin Clark for his line.
"I'm going to go after everybody ... we've had meetings with Caitlin, with Paige [Bueckers]," Curry said of his brand. "You're trying to make sure you're a player in the market."
In November, Curry and Under Armour parted ways after 13 years together. He spent the season as a "sneaker free agent" testing out the various brands. In June, he signed a multiyear deal with Chinese brand Li-Ning.
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