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56m ago

Napheesa Collier Denounces WNBA Leadership, Engelbert Responds

The clash lands as CBA talks enter a make-or-break stretch before the Oct. 31 expiration.

Sep 26, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (24) drives the ball against Phoenix Mercury forward DeWanna Bonner (14) during game three of the second round for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Napheesa Collier.
Image
Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (24) drives on Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25).

Overview

  • Collier delivered a prepared, four-minute statement accusing WNBA leadership of negligence on officiating and accountability and calling the league's leadership the worst in the world.
  • She alleged Commissioner Cathy Engelbert privately told her that only losers complain about referees and that young stars should be grateful for off-court earnings tied to the WNBA platform.
  • Engelbert issued a statement saying she respects Collier and the players and is disheartened by the characterization, while pledging to stay committed to the league and its athletes.
  • Collier said her left ankle injury from Game 3 includes torn ligaments, which sidelined her for Game 4 and would have kept her out of a potential Game 5.
  • The league suspended Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve for one game and fined her $15,000, and later fined Las Vegas coach Becky Hammon and Indiana coach Stephanie White $1,000 each for public support of Reeve.