Angel Reese Calls for Higher WNBA Pay Amid CBA Talks: “We Deserve More”
Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese is speaking out about the need for increased salaries for WNBA players as the league approaches a critical point in its collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations.
Reese, one of the league’s most prominent newcomers and a breakout star from LSU, emphasized that players are long overdue for better compensation, given the league’s growth, viewership spikes, and the expanding cultural influence of women’s basketball.
“We put in the work, we bring in fans, and we elevate the game,” Reese said following a recent Sky practice. “It’s time that’s reflected in how we’re paid.”
The WNBA’s current CBA, agreed upon in 2020, runs through 2027, but both the league and players’ union have the option to opt out after the 2025 season. With players like Reese, Caitlin Clark, and other high-profile rookies boosting attention and attendance, the debate around fair wages has intensified.
“We’re seeing sold-out arenas, national media coverage, and jersey sales going crazy,” Reese noted. “It’s not just about TV deals anymore — we’re building a brand that’s global, and that deserves real investment.”
Currently, the WNBA’s maximum salary is under $250,000, far below NBA counterparts, leading many players to pursue overseas opportunities during the offseason. While the league has made strides in charter flights and maternity protections, salary growth remains a major sticking point.
Reese’s comments echo sentiments from veterans like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, who have also pushed for better revenue sharing and financial support from the league and team owners.
“The next CBA has to reflect where the game is going, not just where it’s been,” Reese said. “We’re not asking for the world — we’re asking for what we’ve earned.”
With negotiations looming and rising stars like Reese using their platforms, the pressure is mounting on the WNBA to deliver a deal that matches the momentum the league is experiencing.
