WNBA to Launch NBA-Style Replay Center Amid Officiating Investment and Player Safety Initiatives
July 26, 2026
Engelbert highlighted ongoing efforts to improve player safety off the court, including addressing online harassment and hate, following a virtual meeting with the players’ union.
Engelbert avoided a direct answer about remaining as commissioner next season but emphasized continued focus on executing the league’s strategy during a period of rapid growth.
An investigation into a Las Vegas Aces sponsorship alleged to exceed the salary cap concluded without disciplinary action, with the league stating the integrity of the game remains paramount.
Engelbert highlighted ongoing efforts to improve player safety off the court, including addressing online harassment, racism, misogyny, and threats faced by players, following a virtual meeting with the players' union.
The WNBA will establish an NBA-style replay center next season as part of a multi-million-dollar investment in officiating to improve consistency, efficiency, and transparency in referee decisions, though final details are still being worked out and the last two-minute report will not be used initially.
The NBA has operated a replay center since 2014-15, and the WNBA intends to leverage that model as part of its growth and modernization efforts.
Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced the move at a state-of-the-league press conference on the eve of the All-Star Game, noting that details are still being worked out and that the last two-minute NBA-style report will not be used initially in the WNBA.
The league continues to engage with players on safety and online abuse issues, including a virtual meeting with the players' union to discuss combating hate, racism, misogyny, and harassment directed at players.
Engelbert defended the league’s leadership during its growth period and affirmed commitment to executing current strategy, while avoiding speculation about her future as commissioner.
A finished investigation into a Las Vegas Aces sponsorship to assess potential salary-cap violations was inconclusive, with no discipline recommended, though the situation highlighted ongoing scrutiny of compensation practices within the league.
The Las Vegas Aces sponsorship investigation regarding salary-cap compliance was inconclusive; no discipline will be imposed at this time, though the league will continue to investigate if new evidence emerges, in line with protecting the integrity of the game.
Engelbert signaled commitment to her role amid a period of rapid growth, emphasizing continued execution of the league’s strategy and noting the current season's strong engagement metrics.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

The Athletic • Jul 25, 2026
WNBA to launch replay center for 2027 season
WKMG News 6 & ClickOrlando • Jul 26, 2026
WNBA to add an NBA-style replay center next season in a major officiating investment
Queen City News • Jul 26, 2026
WNBA to add an NBA-style replay center next season in a major officiating investment