10/06/2025
The tension between Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier and WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has hit a boiling point.
In a Star Tribune column by La Velle E. Neal III, Collier’s sharp criticism of league leadership—calling it “the worst leadership in the world”—sparked a public war of words. Engelbert pushed back in a statement, denying Collier’s claims, and what was supposed to be a private meeting between the two has now been canceled.
At the center of this dispute: Collier’s revelation that Engelbert once said young stars like Caitlin Clark should “be on their knees” in gratitude for the league’s platform. Neal notes how ironic that is, given that Clark and her generation of players have fueled record-breaking growth, attendance, and visibility for the WNBA.
With the league’s collective bargaining agreement set to expire October 31, the rift couldn’t have come at a worse time. Players have rallied behind Collier, and questions about Engelbert’s leadership are growing louder.
Coach Tony Thompson and I will be breaking this down tonight on The Pull-Up Podcast Show — along with the latest on Bronny James, college football, NFL Week 6, and more.
🎥 Tune in LIVE at 8PM CST / 9PM EST
📍 Episode Title: From Bronny James to the WNBA Finals: The Sports Shake-Up You Didn’t See Coming
📸 Photo: Napheesa Collier, Tuesday, September 30th, 2025
📺 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnYFZLE_7hI