Five-time MVP accuses WNBA of ‘self-sabotage’

Napheesa Collier, a five-time MVP, has accused the WNBA of “self-sabotage” and failing to prioritize the interests of players.

The Minnesota Lynx guard claimed that WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert displayed “the worst leadership in the world” and that the league had exhibited “lack of accountability.”

Engelbert expressed her “utmost respect” for Collier and pledges to “ensuring a bright future” for the players and the WNBA.

Collier’s frustrations come after a mistake occurred in the Lynx’s 84-76 loss to the Phoenix Mercury on Friday in the third game of their play-off semi-final series.

The 29-year-old collided with Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas in the final seconds, but no foul was awarded.

Collier was dismissed for contesting the decision, and Cheryl Reeve, the team’s coach, was given a one-game ban for vile remarks made after the game.

The Lynx were eliminated on Monday after losing game four without Collier.

Collier stated in a press conference, “I want to make it clear that this conversation is not about winning or losing.”

It’s about a much bigger issue. Money is not the real threat to our league. It isn’t physical play, missed calls, or even ratings. The league office doesn’t have any accountability, either.

You’ve heard the concerns about officiating since I’ve been in the league, which has now hampered our sport and undermined the integrity of its operations.

It’s true self-sabotage to not care about the product we put on the floor, but the league cares about the health of our players is one thing.

Collier claimed that Engelbert should be “grateful” for what they earn in a conversation about pay in February with star players like Caitlin Clark of Indian Fever and Angel Reese of Chicago Sky.

The current collective bargaining agreement, which expires at the end of this month, is being discussed by the league and the WNBA Players Association.