Clark backs Collier's criticism of Engelbert: 'Phee said it all'

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark backed Napheesa Collier's recent criticism of WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert.

The Minnesota Lynx star said Tuesday that the WNBA has the "worst leadership in the world" and shows a "lack of accountability" regarding various league issues, including inconsistent officiating.

"We need great leadership at this time across all levels. ... This is the most important time in this league's history. ... Phee said it all," Clark told reporters Thursday during the Fever's exit interviews, including ESPN's Alexa Philippou.

Collier said that during a discussion with Engelbert about the value of rookie-scale contracts, the commissioner told her Clark should be grateful for her salary because "she wouldn't make anything" without the platform provided by the WNBA.

Clark said she hadn't previously heard the story Collier shared and Engelbert hasn't contacted her since the MVP runner-up's press conference. But Clark did share her thoughts on what she looks for from leadership.

"I'd say the most important part of leadership, whether the WNBA, whether corporate America, comes down to relationships and really caring about the people you surround yourself with," the two-time All-Star said.

The WNBA's collective bargaining agreement is set to expire at the end of October.