Adam Silver says WNBA deal will get done, but relationship issues with the players must be repaired

NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks during a press conference in Oklahoma City, on June 5, 2025. Nate Billings/AP Stamford, Connecticut AP —

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said a new collective bargaining agreement with WNBA players will be reached, but acknowledged relationship issues that must be repaired following recent criticisms of Commissioner Cathy Engelbert .

Those reached a high point last week when Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier said the league had the “ worst leadership in the world ,” and they have threatened to overshadow the WNBA Finals between Las Vegas and Phoenix that began days afterward.

“There’s no question that the WNBA is going through growing pains and it’s unfortunate that it’s coming just as their most important games and their Finals are on right