Angel Reese’s Bold Stance on WNBA Compensation
Angel Reese, the dynamic forward for the Chicago Sky, has sent a powerful message to the WNBA by threatening to boycott games if the league fails to meet players’ demands for the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Speaking candidly on her podcast, "Unapologetically Angel," Reese voiced her frustration over her current salary, which is part of a four-year, $324,383 rookie scale contract. For 2025, she is set to earn just under $75,000, a figure that, according to Spotrac, barely covers her living expenses. Her bold statement, "If y’all don’t give us what we want, we sitting out," highlights the growing dissatisfaction among players about the disparity in earnings compared to their contributions to the league.
The Current CBA and the Players’ Union
The WNBA players’ union opted out of the current CBA in October, which will remain in effect until October 31, 2025. This decision opens the door for significant negotiations that could reshape the league’s financial landscape. Despite the league’s rising popularity and a lucrative new 11-year TV rights deal worth about $2.2 billion, or $200 million annually, according to multiple reports, players like Reese feel undervalued. The deal, set to begin in 2026, comes at a time when the WNBA is experiencing unprecedented growth, yet the current salary structure remains a contentious issue. Reese’s comments underscore the urgency for a fair and equitable CBA that reflects the league’s new media and commercial potential.
Personal Financial Struggles and Endorsement Deals
Reese’s financial challenges are a stark reality for many WNBA players. In a recent Instagram post, she humorously but poignantly stated, "Hating pays my bills, baby. I just hope you know the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think that pays one of my bills." She revealed that her rent alone costs $8,000 per month, leaving her living "beyond her means." However, Reese’s influence and star power have attracted several high-profile endorsement deals, including partnerships with Reebok, Reese’s, and Beats by Dre. These endorsements not only supplement her income but also highlight her marketability and the league’s potential to attract more sponsors and revenue.
The Unrivaled 3-on-3 League
Adding to her income and visibility, Reese has also participated in the inaugural edition of the 3-on-3 Unrivaled league. This new league is paying all 36 players six-figure salaries, a stark contrast to the WNBA’s current compensation. The Unrivaled league’s generous paychecks serve as a strong example of what players could potentially earn if the WNBA were to adopt a more lucrative salary structure. Reese’s involvement in this league not only provides additional financial stability but also underscores her value as a player and her willingness to explore alternative opportunities.
The Impact of Young All-Stars
Reese’s situation is not unique; young All-Stars like Caitlin Clark also face similar financial challenges. Making five-figure salaries is a reality for many talented players, despite their significant contributions to the league’s success. The possibility that rookie scale contracts for the 2026 draftees might surpass the deals Clark and Reese are currently on has left them feeling "hurt." Reese’s candid conversations with fellow player Dijonai Carrington on her podcast highlight the collective sentiment among players that they deserve more recognition and compensation. The league’s popularity and commercial success should translate into better financial terms for those who drive it, and Reese is leading the charge in making that case.
A Call for Change and Future Prospects
Reese’s bold stance and her willingness to use her platform to advocate for better conditions reflect a growing movement within the league. The new TV rights deal and the league’s increasing visibility present a golden opportunity to address longstanding issues. Players like Reese are not just athletes; they are influential figures with significant commercial value. Her threats of a boycott and her ongoing advocacy for a fairer CBA are a call to action for the WNBA to recognize and compensate its players appropriately. The 2026 season, with its new CBA, could be a defining moment for the league, setting a new standard for player compensation and ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
