WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed recent criticism from multiple star players when speaking to reporters ahead of Friday night's Game 1 of the 2025 Finals. Engelbert later said she was "obviously disheartened" with the public schism between herself and WNBA players. According to Collier, Engelbert was also asked if she had plans to increase the value of rookie contracts for stars driving the league's popularity such as Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers. "Obviously, I did not make those comments," Engelbert said. "We want to significantly, and I mean significantly, increase their salary and benefits, while also supporting the long-term growth and viability of the WNBA," Engelbert said.