Mounting criticism has been directed at WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert after Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier revealed that Engelbert allegedly remarked Caitlin Clark “should be grateful” to the league for her sponsorship deals. The comment has not only sparked outrage among fans and players but has also reignited discussions about how the league handles its rising stars and their influence on women’s basketball.
Clark, one of the biggest names in the sport today, has played a central role in elevating the league’s visibility. However, her absence due to a quad injury in late May 2025 exposed just how dependent viewership has become on her presence. Nielsen data revealed that nationally televised WNBA games saw a staggering 55% drop in ratings during the five games Clark was sidelined. For many observers, this underscored both her unmatched star power and the league’s challenge in building a broader foundation of marketable talent.
The timing of this controversy could not be worse for the WNBA. With fan engagement at a crucial high and the league seeking to secure long-term growth, comments downplaying Clark’s contributions have raised serious questions about leadership. Many fans argue that instead of minimizing her impact, the commissioner should be embracing her as a driving force who has drawn new audiences and sponsors to women’s basketball.
Adding to the turbulence, Napheesa Collier herself is now facing a serious setback. During a recent game against the Phoenix Mercury, she collided with forward Alyssa Thomas and suffered a Grade 2 tear in three ankle ligaments along with a shin muscle injury. Sources close to the situation confirmed the extent of her injuries, which are expected to keep her out of action for a significant stretch. For the Lynx, and the league as a whole, losing another prominent player is a devastating blow.
Between Clark’s injury earlier this year, Engelbert’s controversial remarks, and Collier’s sudden sidelining, the WNBA finds itself at a critical crossroads. How the league addresses leadership concerns, supports its stars, and manages the growing scrutiny from fans and media alike could shape its trajectory for years to come. The coming months will be telling in whether Engelbert can weather the storm—or whether growing calls for change will become too loud to ignore.
