Minnesota Lynx superstar Napheesa Collier has launched a passionate plea to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, demanding urgent action on league expansion as talent overflow threatens opportunities for aspiring professional players.
The 2023 All-WNBA First Team selection didn't mince words when discussing the pressing need for new franchises, highlighting the growing disparity between the influx of elite college talent and limited roster spots available across the league's current 12 teams.
The Expansion Imperative
Collier's comments come amid increasing pressure on the league office to address what many players see as an unsustainable situation. With only 144 roster positions available across the entire WNBA, countless talented athletes face uncertain futures despite being professionally ready.
'We need to expand,' Collier stated emphatically. 'The talent pool is overflowing with players who deserve to be in this league but can't find spots. It's frustrating to see so much potential going unrealised.'
A Commissioner Under Pressure
Commissioner Engelbert has frequently cited the need for financial sustainability and proper ownership groups as primary reasons for the deliberate expansion pace. However, Collier and fellow players are growing increasingly impatient with what they perceive as unnecessary delays.
The Lynx forward pointed to the overwhelming success of recent college stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese as evidence that the market and talent exist to support immediate growth. 'The interest is there, the players are there - what are we waiting for?' she questioned.
Player Welfare at Stake
Beyond mere opportunity, Collier highlighted serious concerns about player workload and recovery in the current structure. With limited roster spots, established players face immense pressure to perform through injuries and fatigue.
'We need more teams not just for new players, but to protect current players too,' she explained. 'Proper rest and recovery become impossible when teams can't carry adequate depth.'
As the WNBA continues to experience unprecedented growth in viewership and revenue, Collier's powerful intervention adds significant weight to the expansion debate. All eyes now turn to Commissioner Engelbert's next move in what has become the defining issue of her tenure.
