In a new episode of her podcast, Chiney Today, ESPN’s Chiney Ogwumike expressed concerns that Engelbert is falling short of expectations in forming genuine bonds with the league’s top athletes and figures. “When we talk about open-door policies, Cathy Engelbert says she has an open-door policy, but to me, players have to initiate,” Ogwumike said. Ogwumike’s perspective is especially useful on these dynamics, given that she played in the WNBA under Ogwumike and now works as an analyst across the NBA, WNBA, and women’s college basketball. While Ogwumike clarified that she did notice an effort from Engelbert early on to form genuine ties with players, now she believes Engelbert has failed to “be there in the biggest and most challenging moments” when players most need support. Likely, Ogwumike is aware of many other players’ experiences with Engelbert as well.