WNBA Turmoil After Engelbert Remarks, Clark Injured

Caitlin Clark’s 2025 season ended early with a groin injury after 13 games; she averaged 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 8.8 assists while the Indiana Fever finished 24–20 and pushed the Las Vegas Aces to an overtime Game 5 in the semifinals. Head coach Stephanie White said Clark’s offseason recovery will be gradual, starting with mechanics and building to five‑on‑five work, and Clark has said she is focusing on rehab and aims to return to full 5-on-5 play by the end of October. Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier publicly alleged WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert told players they should be “grateful” and even “on their knees” over the league’s media-rights deal, prompting widespread player backlash and calls for accountability. Engelbert has responded, and the episode has intensified scrutiny of WNBA leadership as CBA talks approach. The controversy has been amplified by Clark’s commercial pull — surging viewership and high-profile endorsements — bolstering players’ arguments for better pay amid ongoing roster and CBA uncertainty.