Stephen A Smith Demands WNBA Commissioner Engelbert Resign After Player Criticism

Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier publicly criticized WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, accusing league leadership of negligence, lack of accountability, and dismissiveness toward players' concerns, especially regarding officiating and health standards. Collier revealed Engelbert told Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark she should be "grateful" for her endorsement deals, implying those opportunities only existed because of the WNBA platform. Engelbert responded with a statement expressing respect for the players but rejected the harsh portrayal and reaffirmed her commitment to the league's future. ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith strongly condemned Engelbert's response as weak and called for her resignation, amplifying widespread criticism of the commissioner's leadership. The controversy comes amid rising WNBA visibility, driven by stars like Clark and Angel Reese, prompting analysts to warn that internal conflicts could threaten the league's momentum. For now, Engelbert remains in her role, but pressure from players and influential voices continues to mount.