Napheesa Collier cancels meeting with WNBA commissioner
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier has canceled her meeting with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert after public disagreements. Collier's criticism drew support from players across the league.
Collier cancels meeting with Engelbert
Relationship reportedly damaged beyond repair
Engelbert denies remarks attributed to her
Collier previously willing to meet
Players support Collier's criticisms
Engelbert seeks to rebuild trust
An escalating dispute between Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier and WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has culminated in Collier canceling a scheduled meeting. The decision follows Engelbert’s public denial of remarks Collier attributed to her, highlighting deepening tensions over leadership accountability within the league.
Collier Calls Off Meeting over Accountability Concerns
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier has canceled a planned discussion with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Collier cited a “lack of accountability” after Engelbert publicly refuted comments Collier said were made during a private conversation.[1][2]
Commissioner Denies ‘On Their Knees’ Remark
At a news conference before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals in Las Vegas on October 3, Engelbert denied telling Collier that Caitlin Clark and other players “should be on their knees” in gratitude for the league’s platform. “I did not make those comments,” Engelbert stated, adding that she “highly respects the players” and was “disheartened” by inaccurate reports.[3][4]
Sources Describe Relationship as Beyond Repair
A league spokesperson confirmed to ESPN that Collier had not formally informed Engelbert of her decision to cancel the meeting. Insiders characterized the relationship between commissioner and player as “beyond repair” following Engelbert’s public denial of Collier’s account.[2]
Players Rally Behind Collier’s Criticism
WNBA players voiced support for Collier’s call for leadership changes. Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull, the alternate players’ representative, said, “I agree with everything Napheesa said. This is an important moment for our league, and changes must be made”.[5][6]
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