WNBA rookie sensation Angel Reese has voiced her support for potential player action if ongoing salary negotiations fail to meet their demands. During a recent episode of her podcast “Unapologetically Angel,” Reese discussed the possibility of WNBA players striking for better compensation. The Chicago Sky forward clarified her stance after social media misrepresentations of her comments sparked debate online.
“I love how y’all have selective hearing. I said, ‘I’m hearing if they don’t give us what we want, we sitting out,’ and that’s the truth,” Reese tweeted in response to misleading claims. She emphasized that players are “prepared to stay at the negotiating table for as long as it takes” to secure fair compensation.
WNBA Salary Negotiations Take Center Stage as Players Seek Fair Compensation
The conversation about potential collective action comes at a critical moment for the WNBA. In October, the players’ union opted out of the current collective bargaining agreement two years ahead of schedule. This decision opened the door for new negotiations, though the existing agreement remains in place through the 2025 season.
During her podcast discussion with fellow WNBA player DiJonai Carrington, Reese revealed the growing sentiment among players. “I’ve got to get in the meetings because I’m hearing like, ‘If y’all don’t give us what we want, we sitting out,'” she said. Carrington affirmed this possibility, highlighting the united front players are forming around compensation issues.
Rookie Star Clarifies Position After Social Media Misrepresentations
Reese quickly addressed misconceptions after her podcast comments circulated online. Some social media users, including conservative influencers, mischaracterized her statements as demanding equal pay with NBA players. Reese firmly rejected this framing.
“I never said anything about the NBA,” she clarified on social media. The rookie star provided a link to her full podcast conversation, encouraging people to hear the discussion in context. “I will continue to use my voice to speak for what WE want & deserve as a league,” she added, emphasizing her commitment to advocating for all WNBA players.
Financial Reality for WNBA Players Highlighted by Reese’s Rookie Contract
Reese’s advocacy stems from firsthand experience with the financial challenges facing WNBA players. Despite her popularity and marketability, her four-year rookie contract with the Chicago Sky totals just $324,383, with under $75,000 in her first year and an even lower salary scheduled for 2025.
Last October, Reese openly discussed how her WNBA salary fails to cover her basic expenses. “I’m living beyond my means. I don’t even think that pays one of my bills,” she revealed. “That WNBA check don’t pay a thing. Did that even pay my car note?…I wouldn’t even be able to eat a sandwich with that. I wouldn’t even be able to live.”
League’s Financial Challenges Present Hurdles for Salary Improvements
The push for better player compensation occurs against the backdrop of the WNBA’s ongoing financial struggles. Since its founding in 1997, the league has yet to achieve profitability and continues to rely on subsidies from the NBA.
These financial realities create significant challenges for salary negotiations. However, players argue that recent growth in viewership, attendance, and merchandise sales should translate to better compensation. The upcoming negotiations between the players’ union and the league will determine whether players’ financial demands can be met within the WNBA’s current economic model.
