Two-time WNBA champion Breanna Stewart is hopeful for sweeping changes to the league’s pay scale, but acknowledges that change will take time. She emphasized the importance of players continuing to excel on the court while also taking advantage of opportunities off the court. The compensation for WNBA players has been a hot topic following the 2024 Draft, especially with the top overall pick, Caitlin Clark, projected to earn $76,000 in her first season. This rookie salary has sparked calls for an increase in salaries for women’s basketball players.
Clark, who had numerous NIL deals in college, is expected to maintain those endorsements as she transitions to the professional basketball ranks. She also signed a lucrative eight-year deal with Nike worth up to $28 million, showing the potential for WNBA players to secure significant endorsement deals. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed optimism about the league’s development, with hopes for higher salaries and private air travel becoming a reality. She stressed the importance of expanding the number of teams to build an economic model that can support player benefits such as higher pay and travel benefits.
In October, the WNBA announced that the San Francisco Bay Area had been awarded an expansion team owned by the Golden State Warriors, set to begin playing in 2025. This marks the league’s continued growth, with plans for at least five other cities under consideration for a 14th franchise. Engelbert is confident that the league will have 16 teams by 2028, showcasing the WNBA’s commitment to expansion and reaching a broader audience of passionate basketball fans. The addition of new teams will not only increase opportunities for players but also create more excitement and engagement among fans.
The discussions around player compensation and benefits are ongoing in the WNBA as the league looks to bridge the gap with the men’s league. As players like Caitlin Clark enter the professional ranks with lucrative endorsement deals, there is hope for increased salaries and perks for all WNBA players. The expansion of teams, such as the upcoming Bay Area franchise, will further strengthen the league’s economic model and pave the way for more substantial investments in player benefits. The WNBA is on a trajectory of growth and progress, with plans to expand its reach and impact in the coming years.
The future of the WNBA looks bright with the potential for significant changes in player compensation and benefits. While it may take time for these changes to fully materialize, the league’s commitment to expansion and development bodes well for the future of women’s basketball. Players like Caitlin Clark are paving the way for increased opportunities and financial rewards, showcasing the potential for women’s sports to thrive and gain recognition on a larger scale. As the WNBA continues to grow, fans can expect to see more exciting developments and improvements in the overall experience for players and spectators alike.
