Candace Parker Details Communication Differences Between NBA and WNBA Commissioners

Former Los Angeles Sparks star Candace Parker has publicly contrasted her professional relationships with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, adding a high-profile voice to recent discussions about the WNBA’s leadership.

Differing Approaches to Player Relations

Speaking on a recent episode of “Post Moves with Candace Parker & Aliyah Boston,” Parker provided specific examples of the communication she has received from Silver. “I signed a [broadcast] deal with Amazon … I got a text from Adam Silver saying congratulations. I had my third child, I got a text from Adam Silver,” she explained.

Parker, who led the Sparks to a WNBA championship in 2016 during her 13 seasons with the team, also noted other instances of personal outreach. “I get a Christmas gift from Adam Silver every year,” she said. Following her retirement, Parker received another message from the NBA commissioner. “Adam Silver sent me a text message that basically congratulated me on my career and how much I’ve done for the women’s game, and he looked forward to how much I’m going to do from the sideline.”

She then drew a direct comparison to her experience with the WNBA’s leadership, stating, “I have not heard from Cathy [Engelbert].” Parker added, “Adam Silver understands the process. I don’t know if he understood that Cathy [Engelbert] was not doing that either.” Her core message was framed by an earlier comment: “I’m always a believer in alignment … but I think for now, relationships matter.”

Broader Context of Leadership Criticism

Parker’s comments come shortly after Minnesota Lynx player Napheesa Collier made a strong statement criticizing the WNBA’s front office during an exit interview on September 30. “We have the best players in the world. We have the best fans in the world, but right now we have the worst leadership in the world,” Collier said. “If I didn’t know exactly what the job entailed, maybe I wouldn’t feel this way, but unfortunately for them, I do.”

Collier’s remarks prompted support from several veteran players, including current Sparks player Dearica Hamby and Parker herself.

In response, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert released a statement through WNBA Communications. “I have the utmost respect for Napheesa Collier and for all the players in the WNBA. Together we have all worked tirelessly to transform this league,” Engelbert stated. “My focus remains on ensuring a bright future for the players and the WNBA… I am disheartened by how Napheesa characterized our conversations and league leadership, but even when our perspectives differ, my commitment to the players and to this work will not waver.”