Engelbert Faces Boos in Phoenix
Kathy Engelbert, the WNBA commissioner, experienced a rocky reception in Phoenix on Friday night. While presenting the Finals trophy to the Las Vegas Aces, she was met with a chorus of boos from the crowd. Some fans even expressed their discontent by showing middle fingers during her speech, which was supposed to celebrate the team’s success.
As Engelbert attempted to congratulate the Aces, the boos continued. “We’re here today to celebrate a championship. Thank you to all the fans. Phoenix has had a great run to get here, and I just want to congratulate the Aces, the 2025 WNBA champions, on their performance,” she said, visibly unfazed by the disapproval.
Though the Aces had just clinched their third title in four years, they appeared restless amid the cheers and jeers. A’ja Wilson, the Finals MVP, voiced her worries about the atmosphere during the ceremony.
Engelbert has recently come under fire for comments perceived as dismissive towards player concerns. Nafeesa Collier accused Engelbert of telling Caitlin Clark that she should feel lucky to earn $16 million off the court, attributing her success to the platform provided by the WNBA. Engelbert reportedly suggested that players should “thank their lucky stars” for her media rights deal.
“When you have great players, you have to treat them like that. It’s from top to bottom,” Aces point guard Chelsea Gray commented after the game, highlighting a need for better player treatment.
Wilson echoed her discontent with Engelbert’s remarks earlier in the month, stating she was “disgusted.” In response, Engelbert denied the comments, emphasizing Clark’s pivotal role in the league. “Caitlin is a game-changer in this league. She’s a great representative of this game,” Engelbert said in a previous press conference.
Clark also acknowledged that it’s a critical time for the league, emphasizing the importance of relationships in professional sports. She stated it’s vital for players to have good rapport with front office personnel and the league commissioner, as well as with their teammates.
The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on October 31st, marking a significant period for discussions on player contracts and rights.
