WNBA Commissioner Engelbert Denies Belittling Caitlin Clark Amid Player Pay Dispute

A controversy has erupted in the WNBA involving Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, following allegations by Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier that Engelbert told her Caitlin Clark should be "grateful" for the platform the league provides, implying she owes her off-court earnings to the WNBA. Engelbert has adamantly denied making such comments, calling the reports inaccurate and emotionally charged, and expressed disheartenment over the situation, emphasizing her respect for the players and commitment to repairing any loss of trust. Despite backlash from players including Clark's teammate Sophie Cunningham and calls for Engelbert's resignation, she remains in her position and has stressed her dedication to improving relations between the league and its players amid ongoing collective bargaining negotiations. Clark herself acknowledged the criticisms raised by Collier as valid and expressed support for better alignment between players and league leadership. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions regarding player compensation and the league's relationship with its marquee athletes, with Engelbert pointing to Clark's role in bringing tens of millions of new fans to the league. Social media scrutiny has intensified the debate, especially after a video surfaced of Engelbert discussing Clark's earnings, which some interpret as echoing the contentious remarks.