‘Disgusted’: Aces star backs Collier’s criticisms of WNBA commissioner

Summary

A’ja Wilson publicly supported Napheesa Collier after Collier accused WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert of negligent leadership. Collier, a players’ union vice‑president, released a blunt statement saying the league has the “worst leadership in the world” and alleged Engelbert made dismissive remarks — including that players should be “on their knees” thanking her for a major media rights deal. Wilson called those reported comments “disgusting,” praised Collier’s business sense and said Collier represents the players as the union prepares for high‑stakes bargaining. The dispute arrives with the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement due to expire on 31 October 2025, and centres on pay, recognition and the league’s direction.

Key Points

A’ja Wilson backed Napheesa Collier’s public criticisms of commissioner Cathy Engelbert following Collier’s statement.
Collier accused Engelbert of minimising player concerns and criticised officiating and leadership; she said Engelbert told players to be grateful for the media deal.
Engelbert did not deny the quoted remarks but said she was “disheartened by how Napheesa characterized” their talks and remains committed to the league.
The comments come as the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement nears its 31 October 2025 expiry, raising the stakes for negotiations over pay and player rights.
Several current and former players — including Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers and Elena Delle Donne — voiced support for Collier; Caitlin Clark declined to comment.

Why should I read this?

Quick take: this isn’t just locker‑room noise. Wilson backing Collier turns a players’ union gripe into a front‑page issue as CBA talks loom. If you care about who gets a say in the WNBA’s future — pay, platform and leadership — this is the row that matters right now.