Commissioner Cathy Engelbert Stands By Clark During Pay Firestorm
The WNBA has been buzzing with headlines lately, but not just for the game. A pay protest at the 2025 All-Star Game sparked national discussion, with players donning shirts reading “Pay Us What You Owe Us.” The conversation hasn’t cooled off, and now Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is stepping into the spotlight, making her stance and admiration for Caitlin Clark crystal clear.
Engelbert, who was booed at the All-Star event in Indiana, insists she isn’t here to pick sides. But she’s made it known that Clark, despite not playing due to injury, remains one of the league’s most valuable assets. “Caitlin’s such a great player and a great person,” Engelbert said. “She’s been such a great representative of the league.”
Clark, who captured the 2024 Rookie of the Year title, has become the face of the WNBA almost overnight. Her fan vote numbers for the All-Star Game crushed the competition — even established stars like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart. But Engelbert is clear: the league can’t rely on just one name.
“No league ever made themselves on one player,” Engelbert said. “You have to build your league around all of your stars.”
Read More: WNBA Commissioner Responds to Rising Referee Criticism
What Other Voices Are Saying
That message hits as the WNBA faces mounting pressure from players like Angel Reese, who recently called the league’s response to pay demands “disrespectful.” Even Hillary Clinton has stepped in to support the athletes’ fight for fair compensation.
With the pay issue still unfolding, Engelbert also teased what’s next: expansion. New teams are on the way in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia — and the commissioner has big dreams of going global.
For now, though, all eyes are on how the WNBA will handle its most talked-about issue — player pay — without losing its brightest new star.
Your All-Access Pass to Scores, Highlights & Breaking Sports News — Follow The Quick Report on MSN.
