Following the semifinal exit, Lynx forward Napheesa Collier spoke during the exit interview about her season and the heartbreak. But she requested a few minutes for a special speech, which later turned out to be the huge agenda all over the league. Collier criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s accountability and provided a few examples.
Her four-minute speech stirred a massive uproar against the management led by Engelbert, who is facing heat from all directions. And the worst thing about it was the timing of the speech, as the CBA negotiations are still incomplete.
Cathy Engelbert Could Leave WNBA After 2025 Season
One thing about Napheesa Collier is that she is a well-respected and loved professional in the league, holding a vice president post in the WNBPA. So, when she speaks, everyone listens. And that’s what happened when the 28-year-old delivered a speech – it opened the eyes and ears of the league management, who are now listening to all the backlash and complaints about Cathy Engelbert.
Many players, including A’ja Wilson, Nneka Ogwumike, Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kahleah Copper, have shown their open support for Collier’s stance, which only worsens the condition for the league’s top authority. According to a report from Sports Business Journal, the veteran executive could leave the post after the 2025 WNBA season, pending completion of the CBA negotiations.
In reality, the league enjoyed success, expansion, improved ratings, and attendance at the arenas under Engelbert’s management. The WNBA even signed a new 11-year broadcasting deal with USA Network, making every game available for the fans. But the current allegations are serious and could override her achievements during her tenure.
Sources: Engelbert likely to exit as WNBA commissioner after CBA negotiations. “She hasn’t connected; she’s not a relationship builder," one source said. A WNBA spokesperson called remarks about Engelbert's future, "categorically false." https://t.co/5n27sqLw6t
— Sports Business Journal (@SBJ) September 30, 2025
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
With the CBA deal halted on pay parity and revenue sharing model, this put the WNBA on the back foot. Many see this as a great opportunity for the players’ union to get what they desire.
Cathy Engelbert Tried To Soften The Blow
It was a surprise and huge blow to the WNBA Commissioner’s reputation as she was busy working on a new broadcasting deal. But after the speech went viral, the top executive looked to soften the blow with her response.
“I have the utmost respect for Napheesa Collier and for all the players in the WNBA. Together we have all worked tirelessly to transform this league. My focus remains on ensuring a bright future for the players and the WNBA, including collaborating on how we continue to elevate the game. I am disheartened by how Napheesa characterized our conversations and league leadership, but even when our perspectives differ, my commitment to the players and to this work will not waver,” the WNBA Commissioner responded.
However, one thing she missed was connecting with players, as Phee mentioned in her speech, or even having an open conversation with WNBPA members to settle the issue. Caitlin Clark mentioned that she didn’t receive a call from the Commissioner after Collier made her allegations.
Former champion and two-time MVP Elena Delle Donne also highlighted that Engelbert never called her and might not even know that she is retired. Such a distant approach was the key issue with Engelbert’s management.