Have you seen the WNBA's new marketing pitch?  The one where there are numerous players saying disparraging things about the WNBA- and then <dramatic pause> a little note saying "They wouldn't say that... Expect Great" line comes up.  I assume it's by the same group that did the Adidas impossible is nothing campaign and it misses by a long shot.  The commercials have been viewed in numerous settings and around numerous people.  The consensus is always the same- "why would they do that?" 

First- not many people outside of the sports world know who the stars of the league are.  It's not the NBA where cross-over, brand and appeal have endured as part of the local culture regardless of who is on the team.  Second, there are players in the NBA with one name that are brands in their own right.  Jordan, LeBron, Kobe, Shaq, Dirk, Wade, Barkley, Bird, CP3, Duncan, etc.  As a marketing professional, I like the Expect Great part of the slogan, but my recommendation would be to start there and show highlights of the team, good crowds and fun atmoshpere.  Show the public why they should support and attend. 

It's a fledgling (yes still) league trying to gain momentum.  Having these talented women misquoted is just ridiculous and harmful to the WNBA.  As a player, I would not say the lines they were obviously given.  One of these professional ballers needs some ummm balls to say- I don't think this is a good idea.  I'm not putting my name on this.

Good Luck to the WBNA but don't EXPECT GREAT from your marketing plan.  Go to Youtube and see the WNBA: Expect Great Parody.