HOT NEWS: Angel Reese Threatens to RETIRE if WNBA Doesn’t Pay Her More, Caitlin Clark Speaks Out
In a candid revelation that has sent shockwaves through the sports community, Chicago Sky star Angel Reese has openly criticized the WNBA’s salary structure, stating that her earnings are insufficient to cover basic living expenses. This bold statement has ignited a broader conversation about gender pay disparity in professional sports, with fellow WNBA star Caitlin Clark offering her perspective on the issue.
Angel Reese, known for her dominant performances on the court, has been vocal about the financial challenges faced by WNBA players. In a recent interview, she expressed frustration over her compensation, revealing that her WNBA salary does not cover her rent and monthly bills. Reese’s base salary for the 2025 season is approximately $73,439, a figure that many argue is insufficient given her status as one of the league’s top players. She emphasized the disparity by stating, “I’m living beyond my means. Hating pays them bills, baby.”
Reese’s comments highlight a significant issue within the league: despite the increasing popularity of women’s basketball and the growing viewership of the WNBA, player salaries have not seen proportional increases. This financial strain has led Reese to contemplate retirement unless substantial changes are made to the league’s compensation structure.
Caitlin Clark, Reese’s former college rival and current teammate in the WNBA, has also addressed the topic of pay disparity in women’s professional sports. Clark acknowledged the challenges faced by female athletes but cautioned against direct comparisons between the WNBA and its male counterpart, the NBA. She pointed out that the NBA has decades of history, brand power, and global recognition that have contributed to its financial success, while the WNBA is still working toward establishing the same level of widespread commercial success.
While Clark’s comments suggest a more measured approach to the issue, she emphasized the importance of continued growth for the WNBA. “We’re heading in the right direction,” she stated, expressing optimism for the league’s future as more young athletes come up through the ranks and as viewership continues to increase. Her perspective underscores the need for sustained efforts to elevate the league’s profile and, by extension, its financial standing.
The disparity in salaries between the WNBA and NBA has been a topic of discussion for years. While the NBA’s top players earn millions annually, WNBA players often struggle to make ends meet. This financial imbalance raises questions about the value placed on women’s sports and the systemic barriers that hinder their growth and recognition.
Efforts to address these disparities have been ongoing. The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have engaged in negotiations to improve player compensation and working conditions. However, as Reese’s comments illustrate, many players feel that progress has been slow and insufficient.
The situation has garnered attention from various quarters, including former NBA stars like Shaquille O’Neal, who have expressed support for equal pay for women athletes. O’Neal, who has a close relationship with Reese, stated, “They definitely deserve it. Now we just got to get them similar contracts to what some of those NBA guys are making.”
As the WNBA season progresses, the conversation about player compensation is likely to intensify. With high-profile players like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark speaking out, there is a growing call for the league to reevaluate its financial structures and ensure that players are compensated fairly for their talent and contributions.
The outcome of these discussions will have lasting implications not only for the WNBA but for women’s professional sports as a whole. Achieving pay equity is not just about financial fairness; it’s about recognizing the value of female athletes and providing them with the resources they need to succeed both on and off the court.
