Cathy Engelbert’s time leading the WNBA included historic league growth, expansion, increased franchise valuations, and a massive $3 billion media rights deal. But as the WNBA enters its next era, Tacarra believes the league needs leadership that can rebuild trust with players, protect the WNBA’s identity, control its own narrative, and be visible when difficult issues arise. In this episode, Tacarra explains why she believes Engelbert’s departure comes at the right time and what qualities should define the next WNBA commissioner. She also makes the case for Nneka Ogwumike, pointing to her experience as a player, advocate, and longtime WNBPA leader. Key Topics Cathy Engelbert retiring as WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s legacy and accomplishments WNBA growth and league expansion The $3 billion WNBA media rights deal What the WNBA needs from its next commissioner Rebuilding trust between WNBA leadership and players Why the league needs stronger control of its narrative The importance of visibility and accountability from WNBA leadership Could Nneka Ogwumike become WNBA Commissioner? What comes next for the WNBA Timestamps 00:00 - Cathy Engelbert’s retirement announcement and opening reaction 00:47 - Why Tacarra thinks the move is the right one 01:13 - What Cathy Engelbert accomplished during her tenure 01:42 - The $3 billion media rights deal and CBA impact 02:13 - Why the next commissioner must protect the WNBA’s identity 02:41 - Chaos, drama, and controlling the league narrative 03:11 - Rebuilding trust with WNBA players 03:37 - Why visibility and accountability matter 04:04 - Why Tacarra wants Nneka Ogwumike as commissioner

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Kate Koval has spoken out about her decision to withdraw from LSU women’s basketball, and her statement makes it clear that this situation goes far beyond what happens on the court.

In this episode, Tacarra reacts to Kate Koval’s statement and breaks down the circumstances surrounding her decision to step away from the LSU program. With Koval’s personal connection to the ongoing war in Ukraine through her family, Tacarra discusses why athletes sometimes have to make decisions based on their values, family and personal circumstances — not simply basketball.

This conversation also raises bigger questions about college athletics, coaching decisions, player empowerment and the expectations placed on student-athletes.

KEY TOPICS
Kate Koval’s statement about leaving LSU
Why Koval decided to withdraw from the LSU program
The personal and family circumstances behind her decision
Why this situation is bigger than basketball
Coaching decisions vs. the experiences of players
How personal values can outweigh athletic opportunities
Why younger athletes are becoming more comfortable setting boundaries
The pressure placed on college athletes
Why fans rarely know the full story behind player and coaching decisions
Whether the NCAA should make an exception for Kate Koval to continue her college basketball career elsewhere

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Skylar Diggins’ postgame comments have sparked a major conversation around the Chicago Sky, player health, rehab resources and WNBA facilities. Tacarra reacts to the viral discussion surrounding Diggins and breaks down why her decision to return to Notre Dame for rehab may say more about trust and resources than people realize.

Was Skylar Diggins really “crashing out,” or was she being honest about the realities players face when trying to stay healthy during a difficult WNBA season?

In this episode of the Mid Majors Podcast, Tacarra breaks down Skylar Diggins’ comments, the Chicago Sky’s injury-plagued season and the larger conversation surrounding WNBA facilities, medical staffs, rehabilitation and player development.

Tacarra explains why Diggins choosing to rehab at Notre Dame stood out and why professional players need access to elite physical therapy, recovery, training and medical resources without having to travel significant distances to receive them.

The conversation also turns to the Chicago Sky organization. With injuries impacting the roster throughout the season and numerous close losses, how much blame should fall on the coaching staff? Should Chicago make changes, or does the current staff deserve another opportunity with a healthier roster?

Tacarra also pushes back against the idea that Skylar Diggins quit on her team. When a season is effectively over, should veteran players prioritize their long-term health instead of pushing through injuries?

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TOPICS DISCUSSED

• Skylar Diggins’ viral postgame comments
• Chicago Sky facilities and player resources
• Why Diggins returned to Notre Dame for rehab
• WNBA medical staffs, physical therapy and recovery resources
• Whether players should have to travel for quality rehab
• Chicago’s injury-plagued season
• The Chicago Sky’s close losses
• Whether Chicago should make coaching changes
• Why injuries make evaluating coaches difficult
• Load management and minute restrictions in the WNBA
• Why Tacarra disagrees with the “Skylar quit on the team” narrative
• What the situation says about WNBA infrastructure and player health

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