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Napheesa Collier Slams WNBA Commissioner Over CBA Issues

10/7/2025

Summary

Collier Critiques Engelbert

Napheesa Collier criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for poor leadership and lack of accountability during CBA negotiations.
Collier claimed Engelbert dismissed player concerns, suggesting players should be grateful for their platform.
Engelbert denied making negative comments about players but recognized the need for better player relations.
As the CBA expiration on October 31 approaches, players seek a larger revenue share, currently at 9.3%.
Concerns arise over potential conflicts of interest as Collier co-founded the offseason league Unrivaled, which offers higher salaries.

Summary

Bonner Faces Retirement Calls

Bonner's showings in the WNBA Finals drew criticism; fans called for retirement after Games 1 and 2.
In Game 2, she scored four points with a -9 rating, and fans noted a Caitlin Clark-range airball at age 38.
Coach Nate Tibbetts faced scrutiny for not benching Bonner; the CBA cycle ends with discussions of mentoring roles.

History

Historical Context

In 2020, the WNBA ratified a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that increased player salaries by 53% and established a 50% revenue share, a significant rise from the previous 9.3%. This agreement reflects a broader trend in professional sports towards improved player rights and compensation, as seen in other leagues like the NHL and CFL, where labor negotiations have also evolved significantly.

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Collier Critiques Engelbert

Napheesa Collier criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for poor leadership and lack of accountability during CBA negotiations.
Collier claimed Engelbert dismissed player concerns, suggesting players should be grateful for their platform.
Engelbert denied making negative comments about players but recognized the need for better player relations.
As the CBA expiration on October 31 approaches, players seek a larger revenue share, currently at 9.3%.
Concerns arise over potential conflicts of interest as Collier co-founded the offseason league Unrivaled, which offers higher salaries.

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