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Jun 11, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (24) dribbles with Seattle Storm center Dominique Malonga (14) defending during the second half at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Froschauer-Imagn Images

'The League Doesn’t Have That Same Urgency': Napheesa Collier Slams Breakdown In WNBPA–CBA Talks

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Aug 27, 2025 12:18 PM ET

Napheesa Collier is making headlines off the court — and not for the reasons the WNBA might prefer. The Minnesota Lynx star, who also serves as vice president of the WNBPA, voiced her frustration over stalled negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement.

“It feels like it’s kind of same old, same old, we’re not making a lot of progress… it’s unfortunate, we obviously want to get a deal done and it feels like the league doesn’t have that same urgency and the deadline is quickly approaching, I feel like we’re not close right now,” Collier said during media availability.

The current CBA expires October 31, and without a new deal or extension, the league could face its first-ever lockout. Napheesa Collier’s comments echo concerns raised by WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson, who said the league’s slow pace “raises questions on whether it truly wants to get this done or is simply running down the clock”.

Collier’s stance reflects growing tension between players and league officials. With record media deals and expansion fees in play, many athletes believe the time is now for a transformational agreement — one that reflects the league’s growth and the players’ value.

Oct 20, 2024; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (24) argues with an official after being called for traveling in the second quarter against the New York Liberty during game five of the 2024 WNBA Finals at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Napheesa Collier isn’t just speaking as a union leader. She’s also one of the league’s top performers, averaging 23.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. Her voice carries weight, and her urgency mirrors what many players feel behind the scenes.

As the deadline looms, fans and players alike are watching closely. The next few weeks could shape the future of the WNBA.

Napheesa Collier Says Anything Less Than A Title Is A Failure For Lynx

Napheesa Collier isn’t backing down from her expectations — not for herself, and not for the Minnesota Lynx. With the team sitting atop the WNBA standings, she made it clear that the goal is simple: win it all.

“I would say yes, honestly every year, like… if you don’t win a championship then it’s a failure, because that is what your goal is. Especially this year, we have what it takes,” Collier said after practice on Tuesday.

Napheesa Collier on if anything short of winning the championship is a failure this season

“I would say yes, honestly every year, like… if you don’t win a championship then it’s a failure, because that is what your goal is. Especially this year, we have what it takes” pic.twitter.com/18LKxR2kas

— Andrew Dukowitz (@adukeMN) August 26, 2025

May 21, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Lynx guard Natisha Hiedeman (2), guard Courtney Williams (10) and forward Napheesa Collier (24) watch a free throw in the third quarter against the Dallas Wings at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

The Lynx came up short last season, losing a five-game Finals series to the New York Liberty. That loss still stings, and Collier has used it as fuel. She’s averaging career-best numbers and recently returned from an ankle injury with a 32-point performance against Indiana.

The Napheesa Collier mindset is an important part of the Lynx mentality. Championship, or bust. With the playoff spot still within reach, settling for anything less will reward them with less. The chase is on.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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