Overview
- Speaking before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, Cathy Engelbert said, “Obviously, I did not make those comments,” rejecting Napheesa Collier’s claim that she told Caitlin Clark to be grateful for off-court earnings.
- Engelbert said she will not resign, asserted she is the right person to lead negotiations, and voiced confidence in reaching a transformative CBA or securing an extension while seeking significant gains in pay and benefits.
- Collier stands by her account, which also included an alleged remark that players should be on their knees thanking the league for its media deal; Engelbert did not directly refute that specific line and said she will speak with Collier next week.
- Caitlin Clark endorsed Collier’s broader critique, calling this the most important moment in league history, and said she had not previously heard the alleged comment and had not heard from Engelbert at the time.
- Reports citing Sports Business Journal indicate a leadership change is viewed by some as likely but not imminent or confirmed, as player voices such as Sophie Cunningham and A’ja Wilson press for accountability and warn a lockout is possible if no deal is reached by Oct. 31.