Longtime Columnist Calls Out WNBA Leadership for Inaction
Christine Brennan, veteran USA Today columnist and bestselling author, is turning heads with her sharp criticism of WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert. And how the league has handled the rise, and repeated targeting of Caitlin Clark.
While promoting her upcoming book on Clark and women’s sports, Brennan didn’t hold back during a weekend interview with WHO13 News in Iowa. She called out Engelbert for refusing to stand up publicly for the Indiana Fever star guard amid a string of on-court incidents, including hard fouls and physical play that many fans feel crossed the line.
“It’s Astounding to Me”
Brennan expressed disbelief over Engelbert’s apparent hesitation to support Clark directly.
“The way (Engelbert) has trouble talking about Caitlin Clark… it is astounding to me,” Brennan said. “She’ll say Caitlin and Angel. Well, she wasn’t asked about Angel.”
Brennan pointed specifically to the Marina Mabrey incident, when a Caitlin Clark was struck hard in a play that many felt warranted an ejection. According to Brennan, the league should have stepped in more aggressively.
“How Cathy Engelbert doesn’t come out after the Marina Mabrey hit and say, ‘That’s unacceptable, the refs got it wrong… now you’re suspended.’ That’s just unacceptable behavior.”
She accused league officials of being “paralyzed,” suggesting they’ve missed an obvious marketing and leadership opportunity.
“It makes you wonder… What’s going on? Why is it still so bad? This is capitalism 101—if you have a star, run with it.”
Clark Still Sidelined, Fans Await Return
Caitlin Clark, sidelined with a groin injury since June 24, has missed the Fever’s last five games. Her status for Wednesday’s noon matchup against the Golden State Valkyries remains uncertain.
The Commissioner’s Cup champions have managed to stay afloat without their star, but fan frustrations have grown louder. Many are now echoing Brennan’s sentiments. Further questioning why the league hasn’t done more to protect one of its biggest attractions.
If Engelbert doesn’t respond soon, the backlash might only grow.
Read More: Caitlin Clark Book Author Takes a Shot on Angel Reese
