Collier Accuses Commissioner Engelbert of Negligence

After the Lynx's semifinal exit, Napheesa Collier used a nearly five-minute prepared exit interview to accuse WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert of negligence and called the league "the worst leadership in the world," while demanding accountability over inconsistent officiating. Collier alleged Engelbert told her that "only losers complain about the refs," that players like Caitlin Clark should be "grateful" for the WNBA because of their off-court earnings, and that players should be "on their knees" thanking Engelbert for the reported $2.2 billion media rights deal; Engelbert has not directly refuted those specific quotes. Speaking as a vice president of the WNBPA and a cofounder of the offseason Unrivaled league, Collier framed her remarks around an expiring collective bargaining agreement and argued players now hold leverage and may reject a CBA they deem unfair. Her comments drew public support from peers including Angel Reese, Elena Delle Donne and Dearica Hamby and ignited debate across social media and sports outlets. Engelbert issued a statement saying she was disheartened by Collier's characterization and affirmed her commitment to the players, but did not address the specific alleged remarks; potential fines, discipline and the broader impact on CBA negotiations and officiating reform remain unresolved.