In a bold and powerful statement, Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese has voiced her frustration over the current state of the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) — and she’s not alone. Reese, alongside many fellow players, is raising her voice in support of fair wages, improved conditions, and basic respect for women athletes.

The message is clear: If the 2025 CBA fails to meet expectations, many WNBA stars may sit out the season.

💵 “$73,000? That’s Not Enough to Live On.”

Angel Reese recently revealed that her rookie salary — just $73,439 per year — is not enough to cover basic expenses like her $8,000-per-month rent. What helped her financially? A $50,000 bonus she received from winning in the “Unrivaled” women’s basketball league.

“I still have to hustle off the court. That $50,000 saved me — imagine needing a side gig as a pro athlete.”
— Angel Reese (People.com)

The fact that a high-profile rookie must rely on side leagues for financial stability has sparked outrage and support from both fans and fellow athletes.

📝 WNBPA Opts Out: A Call for Equity

The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has already opted out of the current CBA, initiating negotiations for a new, more equitable deal. The players are demanding:

💸 Higher base salaries

🏥 Better retirement benefits

👶 Childcare and family planning support

✈️ Charter flights and improved travel conditions

These demands come at a time when the WNBA is growing rapidly, with a historic $200 million annual media rights deal now in place.

“We have grown the league. We bring in fans. We carry the brand. It’s time our contracts reflect that.”
— WNBPA Representative (PBS.org)

📈 The WNBA Is Booming—So Where’s the Money?

Thanks to increased exposure, streaming deals, and high-profile stars like Reese, Caitlin Clark, and A’ja Wilson, the WNBA has seen a surge in popularity. Yet, most players earn a fraction of what even bench players in the NBA take home.

“The league is growing, but we’re still struggling to pay rent? That doesn’t add up.”
— Anonymous WNBA Player

Many believe that if the league is now signing nine-figure broadcast deals, it’s time the athletes receive a fair share of the pie.

🚨 Reese: “No Deal, No Play.”

Angel Reese was candid in her remarks: if change doesn’t come, the 2025 WNBA season may not start as scheduled — at least not with its biggest stars.

“We love the game. But we love our dignity more. If this doesn’t change, a lot of us might sit out 2025.”

Her comments echo a broader frustration. WNBA players, unlike their NBA counterparts, often play overseas in the offseason just to make ends meet. This constant year-round grind is not only exhausting — it’s unfair.

🌍 A Broader Issue: Gender Pay Gap in Pro Sports

This isn’t just about the WNBA. From the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team to Olympic athletes, women across sports have been fighting for years against the gender wage gap.

Angel Reese and her generation of players represent a new wave of leadership — unafraid to speak up, challenge the status quo, and demand better.

“We’re not asking for NBA salaries. We’re asking for respect. For livable wages. For dignity.”
— Angel Reese

📌 Related Articles & Sources

Want to dive deeper into the WNBA’s fight for fairness? Check out these trusted sources:

📖 WNBA Players Union Opts Out of Current CBA – U.S. News

📺 Angel Reese on Needing $50K to Stay Afloat – People Magazine

📊 $200M Media Deal Signals WNBA Growth – ESPN

📲 Follow & Support Women in Sports

Support Angel Reese and her fellow players as they fight for fair treatment:

➡️ Angel Reese – Instagram
➡️ WNBA Official Facebook Page
➡️ WNBA Players Association (WNBPA)

🧾 Conclusion: A Turning Point for the WNBA

The message from Angel Reese and WNBA players is more than just a call for better pay — it’s a call for equality, respect, and recognition. As the WNBA continues to rise in popularity, the players are making it clear: they are not just athletes — they are the heart of the league.

As negotiations continue, fans and analysts alike are watching closely.
Will the WNBA finally give its stars the deal they deserve?

Stay tuned — and stand with women in sports. 💪🏽