Despite unprecedented ratings, interest, and attendance, one of the WNBA’s most marketable stars has revealed that the money she earns as a player is not enough to cover her expenses.
In an Instagram Live session, Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese stated, “I just hope y’all know, the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think it pays one of my bills. Literally.”
Reese disclosed that she pays $8,000 a month in rent, totaling $96,000 a year, which far exceeds the $73,439 she earned this season with the Sky as a rookie.
Editor’s Picks
Jokingly, she added, “I’m living beyond my means!”
Reese is in a relatively advantageous position compared to many other WNBA players. She was valued at $1.8 million for her name, image, and likeness in her senior year at LSU, making her one of the top 10 highest-earning women athletes. Reese mentioned in May that she earns more money through endorsements and as an influencer in the pros.
“The check that I do get here is a bonus,” Reese mentioned in an interview at the beginning of the season. “Being able to play for four to five months, and earn $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I’m doing. I think it’s a plus for me.”
Reese has endorsement deals with Reebok, Good American, Tampax, Mielle, Beats by Dr. Dre, and Reese’s Pieces. She also sells branded merchandise on her website and has started a podcast called “Unapologetically Angel,” featuring guests like Sheryl Swoopes and Dwyane Wade.
Additionally, Reese has announced her plans to join Unrivaled, a new 3-on-3 women’s league debuting in January, where salaries for the eight-week season are expected to be $250,000 with equity included. This surpasses the maximum WNBA salary for this season, which is $241,984.
“Being able to be in Miami from January to March, not having to go overseas,” Reese explained her decision to reporters in August. “Nobody wants to go overseas. A lot of us never want to have to go overseas, but some people do have to go overseas unfortunately, so being able to make six figures within three months, being able to be housed in Miami, just being able to get better… I’m excited for it.”
During the offseason, many WNBA players play abroad to supplement their incomes. For example, Reese’s teammate Kamilla Cardoso is currently playing in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association.
Fans can anticipate more focus on players’ salaries this offseason. The increased attention and the record media rights deal signed this offseason have prompted players in leadership positions within the players’ union to reevaluate salaries. Both the players and the league have until November 1 to opt-out of their current collective bargaining agreement and renegotiate terms, including salaries.
“People are finally valuing us and seeing our worth and what we have to offer,” said Breanna Stewart, a vice president in the WNBA players’ association, after learning about the new media rights deal. “I’m really excited for the way that it’s going to continue to uplift this league in a number of ways, for one, salaries.”
