WNBA Commissioner Faces Backlash at Championship Celebration

October 11, 2025 - 04:25

During the championship celebration for the Las Vegas Aces, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert encountered a chorus of boos from the crowd in Phoenix as she attempted to congratulate the team and present them with their championship accolades. As Engelbert took the microphone to honor the Aces and crown them champions, the fans expressed their discontent, drowning out her words with relentless jeers.

The atmosphere turned even more tense when Engelbert presented A’ja Wilson with the Finals MVP trophy, as she was met with further boos from the audience. In a moment that should have been celebratory, the players appeared to overlook Engelbert's presence, focusing instead on the festivities surrounding their hard-earned victory. As the postgame ceremony unfolded, Engelbert made her exit from the court, leaving the celebration to continue without her. The incident highlighted a significant disconnect between the league's leadership and its passionate fanbase, raising questions about the future dynamics within the WNBA.