Overview

• Sources told ESPN that Napheesa Collier scrapped a planned sit-down with Cathy Engelbert after the commissioner labeled Collier’s account of their private talk as containing inaccuracies, though a league spokesperson said Engelbert had not been formally notified.
• Engelbert publicly denied making the alleged remark about Caitlin Clark’s endorsement earnings, said she would not resign, and promised to rebuild trust, including launching a new task force on officiating.
• Players across the league voiced support for Collier’s critique of leadership, with stars such as A’ja Wilson and others backing her; Clark called Collier’s points valid without weighing in on the disputed quote.
• Video of Engelbert’s 2024 CNBC comments about Clark benefiting from the WNBA platform resurfaced in coverage, fueling skepticism about her denial even as the specific quote Collier cited remains disputed.
• The confrontation intensifies pressure on already-stalled collective bargaining talks, as players push for revenue sharing, a reworked salary system, better benefits and more say in league decisions.