WNBA Commissioner’s Remark on Caitlin Clark Ignites Controversy

Minnesota Lynx Star Napheesa Collier Criticizes WNBA’s Leadership and Officiating

Controversial No-Call Spurs Collier’s Statement

Napheesa Collier, a prominent figure in the WNBA and a five-time All-Star with the Minnesota Lynx, expressed her dissatisfaction with the league’s officiating and leadership following an ankle injury she sustained due to a controversial no-call. This incident prevented her from participating in her team’s recent playoff game against the Phoenix Mercury, resulting in a season-ending loss.

Collier Highlights Leadership Concerns

Collier’s remarks underscore her broader concerns about the accountability within the WNBA, particularly targeting the league’s commissioner, Cathy Engelbert. She emphasized that her concerns transcend winning or losing, focusing instead on the integrity and credibility of the league’s operations.

“Since I’ve been in the league, you’ve heard constant concerns about officiating, and it has now reached levels of inconsistency that plague our sport,” Collier stated. She also criticized the league’s apparent indifference toward both player health and the quality of the on-court product.

Salary Disparities and Off-Court Earnings

Collier brought to light the issue of disparities in player salaries, specifically referencing Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark’s rookie contract, which averages $84,514 annually. Collier pointed out the stark contrast between Clark’s on-court earnings and her lucrative off-court endorsements, which allegedly amount to $16 million due to the WNBA’s platform.

Fan Reactions and Backlash

The response from fans was swift, with many taking to social media to challenge Engelbert’s statements regarding Clark’s earnings. Critics highlighted that Clark had significant endorsements even before entering the league, suggesting that the WNBA benefits from her presence as much as she does from the league’s platform.

• “She’s not very bright because Clark had big endorsements before the WNBA,” one fan stated.
• “Trash. The W needs Caitlin, Angel, and Paige more than they need the W,” another fan commented.
• “What a deluded moron,” a social media user remarked, in reference to Engelbert’s comments.

Awaiting Caitlin Clark’s Response

As the controversy unfolds, Caitlin Clark has yet to respond to the commissioner’s alleged comments. All eyes are now on how she will address these issues, with her focus currently on Game 5 of the WNBA semifinals between the Indiana Fever and Las Vegas Aces.

This developing story was first reported by Emegypt on September 30, 2025, in their WNBA section.