Liz Cambage RETURNS With Controversial Advice: “Use Your ASSETS — The WNBA Ain’t Paying Enough!”

Former WNBA star Liz Cambage is back in headlines — and this time, it’s not for her dominance on the court. In a bold and polarizing message, the retired center told current WNBA players to “embrace their assets” and turn their popularity into cash, sparking intense debate across the sports world. Cambage’s statement has reignited conversations about the financial realities facing women’s basketball players — and whether her blunt advice crosses the line or simply reflects the truth.

During an appearance on a podcast this week, Cambage criticized the WNBA’s ongoing pay gap, comparing players’ salaries to their global appeal. “The league doesn’t value us enough,” she said. “You have to take control of your image, your body, your brand — that’s where the money is.” Her words quickly went viral, drawing both support and backlash from fans, journalists, and even former teammates.

Supporters argue that Cambage is merely being realistic. With many WNBA athletes earning under six figures, players often rely on overseas contracts, endorsement deals, or social media influence to sustain their careers. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and brand collaborations have become alternative income streams — and Cambage says women shouldn’t be ashamed to profit from their visibility. “It’s 2025 — owning your femininity and using your platform isn’t exploitation; it’s empowerment,” she added.

Critics, however, accuse her of undermining the professionalism of women’s sports. Some current players reportedly feel Cambage’s message risks reinforcing stereotypes that female athletes are valued more for appearance than performance. “We’ve worked too hard to be taken seriously as athletes,” one anonymous WNBA veteran told The Athletic. “That kind of talk doesn’t help the next generation.”

Cambage’s comments come at a time when the league is facing growing tension. Players like Kelsey Plum and A’ja Wilson have publicly discussed income inequality, while stars such as Caitlin Clark have shifted the conversation toward building stronger marketing and sponsorship opportunities. Yet Cambage’s unfiltered take cuts deeper — she’s calling out what she sees as hypocrisy: “Everyone loves our highlights, but when it comes to pay, they say the money isn’t there.”

Despite the controversy, Cambage insists she’s advocating for player independence, not scandal. She reminded fans that the WNBA’s average salary remains far below men’s leagues, and many athletes are forced to work year-round just to stay afloat. Her message — however provocative — reflects frustration that’s been simmering under the surface for years.

As the debate rages online, one thing is clear: Liz Cambage still knows how to make noise. Whether you agree with her or not, she’s shining a harsh light on a truth many prefer to ignore — that passion doesn’t always pay the bills, even for the game’s brightest stars.