Fight between WNBA and its players starting before season even ends

After questionable officiating led to an injury that forced her out of the Lynx’s playoff elimination against the Phoenix Mercury, Collier didn’t hold back. Speaking to reporters a few days later, she directed criticism squarely at WNBA leadership, including Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Collier revealed private conversations that, if true, paint a damning picture of how the league views its stars.

According to Collier, she once asked Engelbert how young, high-impact players like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese should be compensated moving forward. Collier then shared Engelbert's reply.

“Caitlin should be grateful she makes $16 million off the court, because without the platform the WNBA gives her, she wouldn't make anything,” Engelbert allegedly responded, as shared by Shane Garry Acedera of Yahoo! Sports.

Engelbert released a statement in an attempt to contain the fallout.

Clark was responsible for 26.5 percent of the WNBA’s total economic activity in 2024. That figure includes merchandise sales, ticket revenue and TV rights. Yet, Clark’s official WNBA salary is under $100,000. Meanwhile, projections for 2025 estimate that the league will surpass $1 billion in total revenue.

It seems WNBA players are finally realizing they can achieve much more working together than being at each other's throats.

With the league’s popularity surging, and players like Clark, Reese and Bueckers driving unprecedented growth, the stars now have all the leverage they need heading into what promises to be a combative offseason. The WNBA is thriving because of its players. And now, they want their fair share.

Winter is coming for the WNBA.