Napheesa Collier’s criticism of Cathy Engelbert went viral as the star discussed the numerous negative aspects she found in the league leadership. She discussed the poor officiating, her connection with players, and even the pay structure discussions, including rookies such as Paige Bueckers, Caitlin Clark, and Angel Reese.
The shocking revelation exposed the WNBA Commissioner’s operational strategies and also her views about players. Many players, including A’ja Wilson, supported Collier for her stand and even thrashed the league management for their views. The Wings’ superstar rookie also showed love for ‘Phee’.
Paige Bueckers Extends Support to Napheesa Collier
The earth-shaking revelation was a big shock to many, but the players in the league, who had partly known about what was going on, were quick to show their love and support for the Lynx forward. Many lauded her courage to speak the truth, while some took shots at the league authorities. Fans even demanded and thought that the 60-year-old Commissioner would leave the post by the end of the 2025 season.
As for the former UConn star, she had a special mention in Collier’s speech. As the forward said, “I … asked how [Engelbert] planned to fix the fact that players like Caitlin, Angel and Paige, who are clearly driving massive revenue for the league, are making so little for their first four years. Her response was, ‘Caitlin should be grateful she makes $16 million off the court because without the platform the WNBA gives her, she wouldn’t make anything.'”
Showing love for the special mention and the speech delivered, Bueckers posted an Instagram story featuring a photo of herself and Collier from the WNBA All-Star Game. She captioned the photo “Queen Phee” as the WNBA president took a massive decision and step, delivering a speech.
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Collier later added how the league’s leader sees players as Engelbert told her, “players should be on their knees thanking their lucky stars for the media rights deal that I got them.” While the WNBA is popular because of its players, such treatment angers fans who are already demanding a shutdown for the 2026 season.
Paige Bueckers Already Signed With Napheesa Collier’s Unrivaled
While Colliers was criticizing WNBA operations, she provided an example of her husband running the Unrivaled league and how it’s completely opposite to the ‘W’. The first season of the 3-on-3 league was a huge success, with players also happy with the compensation and treatment. Bueckers leads the Unrivaled’s roster, having signed a three-year contract with the league.
PB was one of the top players in Cathy’s eyes as she presented her with the Rookie of the Year Trophy. Some even found the WNBA’s double standards in the announcement of the Rookie of the Year Award for Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers. And now the Wings’ star has taken the players’ side, showing her support for Collier.