Collier Blasts WNBA Leadership, Union Backs Her

Minnesota Lynx star and WNBPA vice president Napheesa Collier used a prepared exit-interview statement to blister WNBA leadership and Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, calling them “the worst leadership in the world” and accusing the league of inconsistent officiating, failing to protect player safety and inadequate pay despite rising revenues. Collier detailed an alleged past conversation in which Engelbert told players to be “grateful” for off‑court earnings and said they should be “on their knees” for the league’s media-rights deal, remarks that have ignited widespread outrage. The WNBPA publicly backed Collier, and teammates and stars including A’ja Wilson and Paige Bueckers voiced support while ex‑Lynx Angel McCoughtry offered to pay any fine Collier might face. Collier’s remarks come as contentious collective-bargaining talks approach an Oct. 31 CBA deadline, intensifying scrutiny of league leadership and calls for accountability. Engelbert said she was disheartened by Collier’s characterization but remains committed to the job, and the league denied reports that she would depart amid growing pressure. The episode has refocused public debate on officiating, pay and whether the league’s leadership can translate unprecedented growth into a sustainable future for players and franchises.