The WNBA is investigating whether the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s $100,000 annual sponsorship to Aces players for this season and next is allowed. The sponsorships do not violate the WNBA’s salary cap because the Las Vegas authority did not orchestrate them with the club. Other teams likely were raising questions about the fairness of the sponsorships and whether they violate the spirit of the cap rules. Aces coach Becky Hammon clarified that the team and she had nothing to do with the situation and that the authority approached individual agents to sponsor the whole team.
This isn’t the Aces’ first experience with league issues in recent years. Last year, the WNBA disciplined Hammon and the Aces for league rules violations related to impermissible player benefits and workplace policies. Despite this, star A’ja Wilson remains positive, stating that growing the game requires overcoming challenges and making improvements to benefit franchises, players, and teams. The head of the authority, Steve Hill, defended the sponsorship, emphasizing that it was executed in ways that benefit the players individually without the team’s involvement. The players expressed joy and gratitude for the financial support and endorsement from the city of Las Vegas.
The $100,000 sponsorship has a significant impact on player earnings, with some players earning less than the sponsorship amount. The support from the sponsors is seen as bridging the pay gap and appreciating the players’ efforts, skills, and contributions to the team. In comparison to NBA salaries, the issue of pay equity for WNBA players has sparked discussions, particularly after No. 1 overall pick Caitlin Clark’s rookie salary was revealed to be significantly lower than her NBA counterparts. President Biden has also weighed in on the issue, calling for equal opportunities and fair pay for female athletes in sports.
The WNBA has been making progress towards promoting pay equity for its players in recent years. While NBA players typically receive around 50% of the league’s revenue, WNBA players previously received less than 23%, a disparity that has since been addressed in the latest labor agreement. The league’s efforts to ensure fair pay and opportunities for female athletes continue to be a priority, with ongoing discussions and actions being taken to address these challenges. As the investigation into the sponsorship of Aces players unfolds, the WNBA remains committed to upholding fairness and integrity within the league while addressing issues related to player compensation and support.
