The discussion around the wage gap between WNBA and NBA players has been a hot topic in recent years. The issue was brought back into the spotlight when Angel Reese mentioned that her $73,439 salary from playing for the Chicago Sky doesn’t cover her $8,000 monthly rent.
It’s important to note that Reese’s WNBA salary is just a part of her income, as she also has various endorsement deals with well-known brands. For example, she earned $1.8 million from an NIL deal before even playing a professional game.
Despite these additional sources of income, the highest-paid WNBA player still earns significantly less than the lowest-paid NBA benchwarmer. While there are factors to consider such as season length, the growing engagement and value of the league suggest that changes need to happen quickly.
New Opportunities for WNBA Players: Alternatives to Overseas Play
Reese will be participating in Unrivaled, a new women’s 3×3 league launching soon, where she will earn $250,000 for an 8-week season. Ice Cube also offered Caitlin Clark $5 million to join his BIG3 league, a tempting offer for just a handful of games.
In the past, playing overseas during the offseason has been a common way for WNBA players to earn extra money. However, new alternatives are emerging that could keep players in the U.S. while still offering lucrative opportunities.
WNBA’s Potential for Growth
The WNBA is gaining momentum with increased fan engagement and mainstream attention. With more sponsorship and media deals, the league has the chance to offer competitive salaries to its players, especially after the WNBAPA opted out of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. If the WNBA can capitalize on this momentum, it could solidify itself as the top stage for top talent, providing both financial and professional fulfillment.
