Overview

• In a four‑minute exit interview, Napheesa Collier accused league leadership of negligence on officiating and player welfare and alleged Cathy Engelbert told players to be grateful for the media‑rights deal and that only losers complain about referees.
• Engelbert said she was disheartened by Collier’s characterization and affirmed respect and commitment to players, though her statement did not directly address the specific allegations Collier described.
• Players and fans rallied behind Collier, with public support from A’ja Wilson, WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike, and others including Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese, while the union amplified Collier’s message.
• The dispute followed a semifinal Game 3 in which Collier suffered an ankle injury on a late no‑call; Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was ejected, fined $15,000, and suspended for Game 4, which Minnesota lost with Collier sidelined.
• With the CBA expiring Oct. 31, players are pressing for a greater revenue share alongside safety and officiating reforms, and the league has called reports that Engelbert might step down "categorically false."