The WNBA’s postseason has taken a dramatic turn, and it all started with Napheesa Collier. The Minnesota Lynx star stunned fans and league officials when she publicly criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert in her season-ending press conference.
Now, Collier’s fiery words have gained the backing of a former WNBA champion who added her own sharp critique. What began as a pointed exit interview has quickly turned into one of the most explosive player-versus-league battles in recent memory.
How Did Elena Delle Donne Back Napheesa Collier in Blasting WNBA Commissioner?
When Collier blasted the league office in her end-of-season press conference, the reaction across the WNBA community was immediate. Yet the loudest echo came from the 2019 WNBA champion, Elena Delle Donne.
On Instagram, she recalled her own retirement in 2025 and the silence that followed. “Heard from everyone but her,” Delle Donne wrote on her Instagram story, pointing squarely at Engelbert’s lack of personal outreach.
It was a simple statement but a powerful one, suggesting the commissioner has failed to show empathy toward the players who built the league. Coming from a former Finals MVP and one of the WNBA’s most respected voices, the comment highlighted what many around the game feel: a disconnect between league leadership and its stars.
Collier had accused Engelbert of dismissing player concerns, particularly on issues like officiating and salaries.
Her strongest words came when she recounted Engelbert saying players should be “on their knees thanking their lucky stars” for her media rights deal. Delle Donne’s message added fuel to the fire, showing Collier is not alone in feeling neglected.
The chain reaction started when Collier, the Lynx forward and WNBPA vice president, unloaded in a prepared statement during her exit interview. She described the league’s leadership as “the worst in the world” and detailed a private exchange with Engelbert that left her stunned.
“I sat across from Cathy (Engelbert) and asked how she planned to address the officiating issues in our league,” Collier said. “Her response was, ‘Well, only the losers complain about the refs.’”
She went on to question why Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers earn so little in their first four years, despite boosting ticket sales and TV ratings. Engelbert’s reply, according to Collier, was that Clark should be “grateful” for off-court earnings she wouldn’t have without the WNBA platform.
While Engelbert responded later by saying she respected Collier and was focused on “ensuring a bright future” for the league, the damage was already done. Her attempt at reassurance came across as corporate, while players were demanding something far more personal.
Collier’s Statement Could Have a Deep Impact As Crucial Moment for WNBA Nears
The timing of Collier’s uproar couldn’t be more significant. Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations are set to restart soon, with an October 31, 2025, deadline looming. As vice president of the players’ union, Collier’s words weren’t just personal frustration but a shot across the bow at the league’s top leadership.
Meanwhile, Collier’s words resonated across the league and support has poured in. Cheryl Reeve, Collier’s coach with the Lynx, praised her leadership: “Phee’s voice is an important one. I’m proud of Phee.”
Her message was amplified by teammates and opponents alike. Dijonai Carrington and Kayla McBride shared her words on social media, while Los Angeles Sparks star Dearica Hamby thanked Collier for speaking out. Chicago Sky star, Angel Reese chimed in with a sly post, writing, “10/10. No notes!”
The irony is that this turmoil comes during a period of historic growth for the WNBA. A Deloitte report projects league revenue will top $1 billion in 2025, fueled by a 40% merchandise spike, record attendance, and a flood of new sponsors.
Versant’s new 11-year, $200 million annual media rights deal will also begin in 2026, promising broader visibility to the league with at least 50 games aired each year.
For Collier and Delle Donne, however, growth numbers mean little if players don’t feel respected. They argue that poor officiating, undervalued contracts, and leadership tone-deafness undermine the players. Their voices, especially combined, could set the stage for a combative CBA fight.
