WNBA Star Napheesa Collier Slams Commissioner Engelbert and Officiating Amidst CBA Talks
Tensions are rising in the WNBA as Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier publicly criticized commissioner Cathy Engelbert and the league's officiating. This comes amidst ongoing negotiations between the WNBA and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) over a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), with a potential lockout looming on October 31.
The uncertainty surrounding the CBA negotiations has cast a shadow over the WNBA playoffs. Players are seeking higher salaries and improved retirement benefits, with the current CBA set to expire at the end of the month. The players' union opted out of the current CBA last October, but little progress has been made since then.
Collier's criticism, directed at Engelbert and the officiating, has added fuel to the fire. Players, coaches, and fans have been vocal about the league's referees allowing more aggressive play, leading to several season-ending injuries. Engelbert acknowledged the possibility of a stoppage, indicating that a deadline extension might be needed.
The WNBA has experienced a surge in ratings and revenue in recent seasons, with new media deals signed, including one with USA Network. However, a lockout could delay or cancel the 2026 season, potentially harming the league's momentum. In a show of support, 85 members of the Democratic Women's Caucus and House Democratic Caucus wrote to the WNBA, urging the league to bargain 'in good faith' with the union before the deadline.
With the October 31 deadline approaching, both the WNBA and the WNBPA must navigate these challenges to reach an agreement that benefits both parties. Failure to do so could result in a lockout, delaying or even canceling the 2026 season and potentially harming the league's progress.
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