Cathy Engelbert comments ignite backlash; A’ja Wilson ‘disgusted’

WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson has condemned alleged Cathy Engelbert comments about player marketing and value. The reaction followed Napheesa Collier’s searing exit-interview remarks on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025. The debate now centers on how the league invests in its stars.

Collier said Engelbert minimized the worth of top players in league marketing talks. Wilson called that “honestly disgusted,” urging equal effort behind the league’s biggest names. The WNBA faces rising pressure as CBA talks approach.

Key details on the Cathy Engelbert comments

Collier recounted a meeting where Engelbert allegedly framed player marketing around low salaries and questionable return. She also said Engelbert told players to be grateful for off-court income tied to the WNBA platform. The claims sparked fast, public pushback from players and fans.

Wilson supported Collier within hours. She said players want investment that helps them grow, not just rewards after growth. She emphasized that star building should start now, not later.

The league has seen record interest this year. Attendance and viewership climbed during a high-profile rookie wave. Yet veterans argue the league still underinvests in player promotion and brand development.

The conversation also touched pay. Collier highlighted rookie-scale salaries for top draws such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. She questioned how the league captures revenue created by surging attention while salaries remain limited under the cap.

Angel Reese amplified the message with a blunt social post: “10/10. No notes!” Other players echoed support for Collier. The reaction signaled a rare, united front from stars across teams.

League officials pushed back on the characterizations. Engelbert expressed disappointment with how her remarks were portrayed. She reiterated a commitment to growth, media deals, and player support.

Separate reporting suggested Engelbert could depart after CBA talks conclude. A league spokesperson disputed that characterization as false. The uncertainty underscores how tense this moment is for the WNBA.

This flashpoint arrives as sponsors, media partners, and teams capitalize on the sport’s momentum. The question is whether league strategy will lean harder into star marketing. Players argue that is the only way to sustain and scale the surge.

What this means for the league and its players

Short term, expect louder player voices in public and in negotiations. Stars will press for concrete marketing plans and measurable investment. Social media will continue to amplify every move.

Long term, this could reshape the league’s brand playbook. A heavier focus on star storytelling would align with modern sports economics. Stronger player marketing can lift attendance, ratings, and licensing over time.

The balance between central control and player-led branding is the key tension. If the league leans in, it may unlock new value across teams and markets. If not, frustration could spill deeper into the CBA talks.

Bottom line: the “Cathy Engelbert comments” debate has become a referendum on how the WNBA treats and markets its stars. Wilson’s disgust and Collier’s challenge set the tone. What happens in the next few weeks could shape the league for years.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did A’ja Wilson say about the alleged comments?

She said she was “honestly disgusted.” She also praised Collier for speaking up. She called for equal effort behind WNBA stars.

Q2: Did the WNBA respond to Collier’s claims?

Yes. Engelbert expressed disappointment with the portrayal of her views. The league says it remains focused on growth and player support.

Q3: Why did Angel Reese go viral in this story?

Reese posted, “10/10. No notes!” in support of Collier. Her post captured the player mood. It added momentum to the backlash.

Q4: How does this affect the upcoming CBA talks?

It raises stakes on pay and marketing. Players want concrete investment and accountability. The tone suggests tough negotiations ahead.

Q5: Are reports true that Engelbert may exit?

Some reports say she could leave after CBA talks. A league spokesperson denies that. The situation remains fluid.