The WNBA is currently in a difficult situation, losing support from players’ unions and fans. Many criticize the league for delaying CBA discussions, while the players’ union constantly criticizes every step the league takes to secure the CBA deal. Breanna Stewart even called out Adam Silver to step in.
The NBA Commissioner was active on the front, though he was not directly involved in the discussions. He trusted the WNBA commissioner to find the middle ground and recently praised the league in different aspects, though.
Adam Silver Praises WNBA’s Three Decade Turnaround
The NBA is eyeing a league in Europe, targeting famous clubs for collaboration. While the project would take some time, the league is ready to be patient, as Adam Silver mentioned that it had been deliberately managing its revenues to keep the league’s and players’ interests intact.
The Commissioner immediately took the opportunity to discuss the WNBA, highlighting its early years and praising its 30th year. Silver pointed to that transformation as evidence that sustained investment can eventually reshape a league’s trajectory. “Jump ahead to 30 years later, where it’s amazing what’s happening in women’s basketball right now,” he said.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver on the funding of NBA Europe:
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) January 15, 2026
"The funding will potentially come from, at least initially, the member clubs of the league…
If we were to successfully launch this new league, it would take a while before it is a viable commercial enterprise" pic.twitter.com/o47kSsGtWa
While the WNBA Europe League is also in serious discussions, it could launch alongside NBA Europe in 2027. The NBA commissioner said it’s not for those seeking short-term returns and added that it will be multi-decade in the making.
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The executive also added transformation as evidence that sustained investment can eventually reshape a league’s trajectory. He recently singled out Caitlin Clark for the WNBA’s recent popularity surge.
Adam Silver Lauds Caitlin Clark’s Impact On WNBA
Amid CBA discussions, in which players highlighted the rise in popularity as a key demand, Silver praised the Indiana Fever and CC, who were major contributors to that rise.
Recently, speaking with FDSNI, Adm. Silver pinpointed the rise and praised Fever Guard. He said, “To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it’s remarkable.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver (on FDSNI): "To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it's remarkable."
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) December 4, 2025
The player and franchise certainly have a global impact, with many international fans flying in for the Fever games.