Because there were so many points of interest during this past WNBA offseason (specifically regarding the ongoing CBA negotiations), the proposed changes regarding how games would be officiated flew relatively under the radar for some fans.

But when WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the media before the 2026 WNBA Draft, she emphasized that there was a concerted effort to improve how physicality is handled in games. Specifically, she wanted referees to be clearer and more consistent with what was worthy of being a foul and to be more okay with blowing the whistle.

And so far, early returns have been positive in this regard.…