A'JA WILSON SAYS SHE LACKS DEEPER BOND WITH WNBA COMMISSIONER ENGELBERT

A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces stated that her relationship with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert extends only to award ceremonies. Speaking before the WNBA All-Star Game, where Wilson started for Team Spoon, she told reporters that Engelbert hands her awards but that no deeper connection exists between them. Wilson said she values leadership based on "bonds" and "connection on a deeper level" in professional settings. She described players as the "true leaders" of the league.

Wilson has won the MVP award four times, most recently in 2025, and received the trophy from Engelbert at a practice session attended by her boyfriend Bam Adebayo. Her comments come amid a period of criticism directed at Engelbert over multiple matters. Players including Alyssa Thomas and Chelsea Gray have received online abuse and racially motivated comments following controversial on-court incidents, which critics say Engelbert failed to address adequately. Minnesota Lynx player Napheesa Collier previously stated the league has "the worst leadership in the world."

Engelbert has also faced criticism over officiating standards, particularly regarding Caitlin Clark and what observers characterise as insufficient protection against excessive physical play. Eleven United States Congressmen wrote to Engelbert demanding accountability on this matter. Engelbert has overseen the WNBA's recent expansion phase. The commissioner's office has not yet responded to Wilson's remarks.