The future of the WNBA hangs in the balance, and one rising star is putting her trust in a bold advocate to protect it. But here's where it gets controversial... LSU’s top WNBA prospect, Flau’jae Johnson, is doubling down on her support for Napheesa Collier, the Minnesota Lynx star and co-founder of Unrivaled, whose scathing critique of WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert sent shockwaves through the league. And this is the part most people miss: Johnson’s unwavering faith in Collier isn’t just about words—it’s about integrity, leadership, and a shared vision for the league’s future.
Unrivaled represents everything players dream the WNBA could be—a league that values its athletes, prioritizes their well-being, and fosters growth both on and off the court. It’s no surprise, then, that Johnson, alongside 14 other top college players, signed NIL deals with the organization. But what’s truly striking is Johnson’s deep-rooted belief in Collier’s ability to drive change. When asked about Collier’s explosive remarks during her 2025 season exit press conference, Johnson’s response was telling: “Man, she ate that. When (Collier) speaks, you really listen because she’s not a person that’s, like, super talkative. She owns a company, so she has to have some type of integrity behind what she’s saying.”
Bold statement alert: Collier’s calm demeanor and quiet authority make her outbursts all the more impactful. As vice president of the WNBPA and a successful businesswoman, she’s not one to lash out without cause. Her critique of Engelbert—calling the league’s leadership “the worst”—wasn’t just a moment of frustration; it was a breaking point after years of unaddressed player concerns. “I just got to the point where I was fed up,” Collier later explained, shedding light on the systemic issues plaguing the league.
For Johnson, this fight hits close to home. Projected as the No. 5 pick in next year’s draft, she’s on the cusp of entering a league where the ongoing CBA negotiations could redefine player experiences—from salaries and benefits to the grueling need to play overseas during the offseason. But progress hinges on resolving the tension between players and leadership. “That’s going to be her next year,” Johnson reflects, underscoring the urgency of these conversations.
And here’s where it gets even more contentious: While Johnson and many players stand firmly behind Collier, others, like South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, offer a nuanced perspective. Staley, a WNBA veteran herself, acknowledges both sides of the debate. “It sounds like it’s personal in her perspective of the situation. And I think people have to understand they’re negotiating,” she said, emphasizing the emotional and factual layers of the conflict. Staley commends Collier’s bravery in speaking out but also recognizes Engelbert’s contributions to advancing women’s professional basketball.
This isn’t just a battle of personalities—it’s a fight for the soul of the WNBA. As the league’s popularity grows, its infrastructure must evolve to match. But can both sides find common ground? And more importantly, will the next generation of players like Johnson reap the rewards of this struggle? What do you think? Is Collier’s critique justified, or is Engelbert being unfairly scapegoated? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
