Laurel J. Richie, the president of the W.N.B.A., is stepping down after more than four years on the job.
The league said in a news release Wednesday that Richie was leaving to pursue other opportunities, including being an advocate for girls and young women.
Beginning next week, the N.B.A. deputy commissioner Mark Tatum will oversee the W.N.B.A. until a new president is hired. The league will begin its 20th season next year.
Richie assumed her role with the league in May 2011, becoming the first African-American to lead a major sports league.