Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese recently highlighted concerns regarding WNBA salaries after earning a $50,000 bonus from winning the Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball league championship with her team, Rose Basketball Club (Rose BC). Reese’s rookie contract with the WNBA’s Chicago Sky pays her approximately $73,439 annually, a figure she has openly criticized as insufficient to cover her living expenses, including an $8,000 monthly rent.
Following the Unrivaled championship victory, Reese took to social media to express her enthusiasm for the bonus, stating, “50K NEED DATTTTT.” This prompted a lighthearted exchange with fellow WNBA player Sydney Colson, who joked about borrowing some of the money. Reese responded, “I’m sorry to break it to you but I’m on a rookie contract and that 50k was a little more than half of my contract so I have to keep that to myself.”
The disparity between WNBA and NBA salaries has been a topic of discussion among players and fans alike. Reese’s comments shed light on the financial challenges faced by female athletes in the league. She has previously voiced concerns about the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), suggesting that without improvements in player compensation, actions such as a potential lockout could be considered.
While Reese’s endorsement deals with brands like Reebok, McDonald’s, Hershey’s, and Beats by Dre supplement her income, the base WNBA salary remains a significant factor in her financial planning. The $50,000 bonus from the Unrivaled championship not only provided immediate financial relief but also underscored the need for ongoing dialogue about equitable compensation in professional women’s sports.
As discussions about the future of the CBA continue, Reese’s candidness contributes to a broader conversation about valuing female athletes appropriately. Her experiences highlight the importance of addressing salary disparities to ensure that players can focus on their performance without undue financial st ress.
