The WNBA has experienced meteoric growth, primarily fueled by the phenomenal performances of rookie superstars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Their impact has led to record-breaking attendance, viewership, and merchandise sales, propelling the league to unprecedented heights.
However, despite the league's remarkable success, top WNBA players still face a significant disparity in salaries compared to their male counterparts in the NBA. The three most valuable WNBA teams—Las Vegas Aces, Seattle Storm, and New York Liberty—were valued at a staggering 13 to 70 times their most recent sale price, underscoring the league's immense potential for growth.
The WNBA's future prospects are further bolstered by a recent 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights deal with Disney, Amazon Prime, and NBCUniversal. This significant investment will begin in 2026, providing a substantial boost to the league's revenue and visibility.
Despite the league's growing value, player salaries remain relatively modest. Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, for example, earn approximately $76,000 and $74,000 respectively. Even veteran players like Brionna Jones, who has been in the league for seven years, earn only $212,000—a figure that is comparable to the salaries of recent MVP winners A'ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart.
To supplement their income, many WNBA players participate in overseas leagues during the offseason. Brionna Jones, for instance, plays in Europe to boost her earnings. While this allows her to enjoy her passion year-round, it also takes a toll on her body.
The current collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and the WNBPA expires in 2027, providing an opportunity for renegotiation. Both sides have the option to opt out of the deal in November, which could lead to a new contract that addresses player salaries and other important issues.
While the WNBA has made significant strides, the league still faces challenges in achieving parity with the NBA in terms of player compensation. Despite the growing value of franchises and media rights, the WNBA is expected to lose approximately $50 million this year.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed optimism about the league's future, emphasizing the importance of player well-being and financial security. She highlighted the league's recent initiatives, such as the charter flights program and increased playoff bonuses, which demonstrate a commitment to improving player conditions.
While the WNBA may not yet have reached the level of player salaries seen in men's professional sports, many within the league believe that it is only a matter of time. As the league continues to grow and attract more fans and investors, the potential for increased player compensation is promising.