Why The WNBA Can’t Market A’ja Wilson

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A’Ja Wilson hits out at the WNBA amid sponsorship controversy: What happened to growing the game

WNBA launched an investigation into the Aces’ newly announced player sponsorships

A’ja Wilson.SHAWN THEWEFE

Two-time WNBA champion A’Ja Wilson has voiced her displeasure after the WNBA launched an investigation into the Las Vegas Aces’ newly announced player sponsorships, dampening the team’s initial excitement.

The Las Vegas Aces had secured a major financial boost for their players, with each receiving a $100,000 sponsorship from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA).

However, the celebration was cut short when the WNBA announced an investigation into the deals less than 24 hours later.

The current investigation has put the Las Vegas Aces back under the spotlight, raising concerns about the league’s regulations and the team’s compliance with them.

Player reaction

Wilson, who was focused on the Aces’ game against the Sparks, only learned about the investigation after the match and her disappointment was evident, echoing the sentiments of her teammates.

“Finding out ya team is under investigation right after a game is OD. Like huhhhhhh. what happened to growing the game,” Wilson noted.

Chelsea Gray, another star player for the Aces, expressed her disbelief on Twitter, writing, “Under investigation is crazyyyyy.”

Alysha Clark also chimed in, questioning, “Can we investigate Cathy in her decisions on who is allowed to charter and who isn’t?”

Another incident sparking controversy

The Aces have faced scrutiny from the WNBA before. Last year, they were accused of making under-the-table payments to players.

In 2023, Howard Megdal of The Next reported that the Aces allegedly used a tactic where a potential player’s agent would be told to expect a monetary offer from a specific company, suggesting minimal work would be involved.