Caitlin Clark has confirmed that she has not heard from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert following a controversy stirred by teammate Napheesa Collier’s public statement earlier this week. The Indiana Fever star said Thursday that she had no prior knowledge of Engelbert’s alleged comments and has had no communication with the commissioner since the story broke.
The situation stems from a private conversation Collier claims took place with Engelbert earlier in the year, during which the commissioner allegedly said that Clark and other players “should be on their knees” in gratitude for the platform the league provides — particularly pointing to Clark’s lucrative endorsement deals. Engelbert responded with a public statement saying she respects Collier but was “disheartened” by how their conversation was portrayed.
Clark, who had not previously addressed the matter publicly, said of Collier:
“She made valid points,”
and confirmed she hadn’t known about the conversation until the story surfaced this week.
Clark Still Recovering from Injury-Plagued Rookie Season
Clark also updated reporters on her physical status, explaining that she’s still not fully healthy following a season-ending groin injury compounded by a serious ankle sprain. She’s aiming to return to five-on-five basketball by late October and says her focus now is on USA Basketball and long-term growth.
“It’s been tough sitting out, no doubt. But I know this season will shape me in ways I’ll appreciate later in my career,” she reflected.
League-Wide Frustrations Are Mounting
Clark isn’t the only Fever player speaking out. Teammate Sophie Cunningham voiced sharp criticism during end-of-season media availability. With a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on the horizon and growing issues around officiating, leadership, and player health, players are demanding better support.
“I’m tired of the way this league is being run,” Cunningham said.
“There’s a real chance of a lockout. A lot of people in power in the WNBA may be good businesspeople, but they don’t know a thing about basketball — and that has to change.”
She also blasted the physical toll the game has taken on players this season:
“It’s not even fun to watch anymore. Everyone’s out there just trying to survive without getting injured.”
Cunningham and Clark were two of four Fever players who suffered season-ending injuries. Despite that, the team managed to win their first playoff series in a decade and nearly upset second-seeded Las Vegas in a dramatic five-game series — including an overtime thriller where both Aliyah Boston (fouled out) and Kelsey Mitchell (hospitalized due to severe cramping) were unavailable at the end.
Mitchell’s Scare and Fever’s Future
Mitchell described the scary experience:
“My legs were completely numb. I couldn’t feel my feet. I just felt helpless.”
Fever management has named re-signing Mitchell, their leading scorer, as a top offseason priority.
A League at a Crossroads
The WNBA is facing its most pivotal moment in history, as increased attention, endorsement opportunities, and player activism collide with internal tension and a looming CBA negotiation.
Clark summed it up:
“Everyone in power — players, execs, league leadership — has a responsibility to make sure the WNBA’s future is strong. We’re at a turning point, and how we respond now will shape the game for years.”
TL;DR:
- Caitlin Clark hasn’t heard from the WNBA commissioner after a controversy sparked by Napheesa Collier’s remarks.
- Clark supports Collier’s points but had no prior knowledge of the situation.
- She’s still recovering from injury and focusing on long-term growth.
- Fever teammate Sophie Cunningham blasted WNBA leadership and warned of a possible lockout.
- With the CBA on the horizon, players are calling for accountability, safety, and respect.