Caitlin Clark Responds to Criticism About WNBA Leadership
Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has voiced her opinion on the recent criticisms directed at the WNBA’s leadership. In a recent statement, Clark addressed the comments of Napheesa Collier, a player for the Minnesota Lynx, who questioned the league’s management.Clark emphasized the importance of strong leadership at this crucial moment for the league, highlighting the need to capitalize on the WNBA’s current growth. The Fever player also commented on Collier’s statements, who claimed that WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert told her that Clark should be grateful for earning $16 million off the court. Clark revealed that she had not heard that story previously and that she has not been in contact with Engelbert since then. Instead of directly responding to Engelbert’s supposed comment, Clark pointed out that NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) has allowed college players to develop their brands and earn income before reaching the league, as she herself did in Iowa. Clark also shared his vision of what he considers effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of relationships.“I have great respect for Phee. She said everything that needed to be said”.
Caitlin Clark
Sophie Cunningham, Clark’s teammate, went further in her criticism of the league’s leadership. Cunningham expressed his disappointment with the WNBA’s management, stating that they feel the leadership is failing the players and that they support Collier’s opinions. He also mentioned that he has received messages from NBA players who are surprised by the situation and feel bad about the way WNBA players are treated. Cunningham criticized the league’s refereeing, describing the game as a “battlefield” and questioning the lack of action in improving the criteria for calls. Furthermore, he called the collective bargaining negotiations “very, very poor”, indicating the possibility of a lockout if the players’ demands are not met. Both Cunningham and Clark will miss the 2025 season due to injuries. Clark, who only played 13 games this season, revealed that he suffered a sprained ankle in August while recovering from a groin injury. Clark expects to begin incorporating 5-on-5 training in late October and will prepare for opportunities with USA Basketball in the coming months.“It’s all about relationships, and that’s the truth. Whether it’s a relationship with your office, with the league commissioner, or with your teammates… Why would my teammates listen to me if I didn’t have a relationship with them? I think it’s the simplest thing and you have to be very intentional about seeking out those relationships and understanding your teammates”.
Caitlin Clark
