The WNBA is enjoying unprecedented media attention in 2024 — but behind the scenes, fans and critics are starting to voice growing concerns over what they call “entitlement culture” and favoritism at the highest levels of the league.

At the center of the latest wave of criticism? Two of the league’s biggest names: Brittney Griner and A’ja Wilson.

Both stars have been accused — fairly or unfairly — of benefiting from preferential treatment, questionable double standards, and playing a major role in what some are now calling the WNBA’s “corrupt inner circle.”

Let’s break down the controversy and what it means for the future of the league.

Entitlement on Display?

Over the past month, multiple incidents involving Griner and Wilson have raised eyebrows among WNBA fans, media figures, and even former players:

▪ Brittney Griner:

After rejoining the league following her high-profile detainment in Russia, Griner has been widely supported — and rightfully so. But critics now argue that the league is shielding her from criticism, even when her performance is subpar or her behavior on-court gets aggressive.

In a recent post-game confrontation, Griner shoved an opposing player, but received no fine or suspension.

Several WNBA media outlets avoided even mentioning the incident, fueling accusations of protectionism.

▪ A’ja Wilson:

Considered the face of the Las Vegas Aces and a perennial MVP candidate, Wilson is undeniably one of the league’s best — but some say she’s become untouchable in the eyes of the WNBA.

During a heated game, Wilson blatantly criticized referees on national television.

Instead of facing consequences, she was later featured in a WNBA promo campaign as a “leader of the league.”

Fans see a clear pattern: rules don’t apply the same to everyone.

The “Protected Players” Problem

Multiple WNBA players and insiders — speaking off the record — have begun describing a two-tier system within the league:

Tier 1: Protected stars like Griner, Wilson, and a few others who receive favorable calls, media coverage, and leeway with conduct.

Tier 2: Everyone else — including promising rookies and overseas players — who must fight for every minute, call, and headline, often without support from the league.

This perceived imbalance has led to growing resentment inside locker rooms, especially as new stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese enter the spotlight.

“If you’re not part of their club, you better be perfect — or you’re gone,” said one anonymous WNBA assistant coach.

Follow the Money: League Favoritism?

Much of the backlash stems from how marketing dollars and media exposure are distributed.

Despite underwhelming team performances, players like Griner and Wilson continue to be heavily promoted in national ad campaigns and WNBA social content.

Meanwhile, players from smaller markets — or outspoken critics of the league — are often left out of highlight reels, press features, or major endorsements.

This favoritism feeds a narrative that the WNBA isn’t just about merit — it’s about who plays by the league’s PR rules.

Fans & Analysts Push Back

The WNBA’s growing audience is also becoming more critical. On social media, trending hashtags like #WNBAEntitlement and #ProtectTheCircle have popped up in response to perceived hypocrisy.

Sports radio hosts and online creators are increasingly calling out what they see as a “double standard” culture within the league:

“You can’t talk about equality and fairness in the WNBA when certain players are clearly above the rules,” said one popular basketball YouTuber.
“This league won’t grow if it keeps playing favorites.”

Final Thoughts: Can the WNBA Clean House?

There’s no doubt that Brittney Griner and A’ja Wilson are phenomenal athletes and key figures in the league’s identity. But as scrutiny grows, the WNBA will need to decide:

Will it continue protecting a handful of stars at all costs?

Or will it embrace transparency, accountability, and equal standards for all players — no matter how famous?

If it chooses the former, fans may begin to tune out, believing the system is rigged.
If it chooses the latter, it has a real shot at becoming the truly global, competitive league it claims to be.

But one thing’s for sure:
The days of sweeping favoritism under the rug are over.