It has been a turbulent week in the WNBA. Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier publicly criticized commissioner Cathy Engelbert, accusing the league’s leadership of failing its players. Collier said the biggest problem facing women’s basketball isn’t ratings or money-it’s accountability.
Speaking with reporters Tuesday, Collier explained that players have raised concerns about inconsistent officiating and health standards for years. “Since I’ve been in the league, the only thing consistent is the lack of accountability from our leaders,” she said.
Collier then revealed a private exchange with Engelbert that sparked even more reaction. According to Collier, the commissioner told Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark she should be “grateful” for her $16 million in endorsement deals, suggesting those opportunities wouldn’t exist without the WNBA platform. The remark, if true, painted Engelbert as dismissive of Clark’s growing impact on the sport.
Engelbert later issued a statement saying she respected Collier and all players, but she pushed back on how the comments were portrayed. “My commitment to the players and to building this league will not waver,” she said.
Stephen A. Smith Weighs In
By Wednesday morning, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith joined the discussion on First Take. Never one to hold back, Smith argued Engelbert’s handling of the situation shows she is unfit to continue as commissioner.
“You should resign-period,”Smith said. “When a player of that stature calls you out, and your response is weak, you’ve already lost credibility.”
Smith’s remarks echo a growing chorus of criticism. Clark’s arrival has pushed WNBA ratings and attendance to record highs. Her presence, along with rising stars like Angel Reese, has made the league more visible than ever. Analysts warn that clashing with those players could stall the momentum the WNBA has been building.
For now, Engelbert remains in her role. But with Collier’s challenge and Smith’s megaphone amplifying it, the pressure on the commissioner’s office is only increasing. Fans aren’t just watching the games-they’re watching how the league handles its stars.
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