The potentially looming WNBA lockdown could have major financial ramifications for WNBA stars like Angel Reese. The Chicago Sky rookie recently went on Instagram Live to express how her salary from the league doesn’t pay her rent.
Big changes may be coming to those salaries soon. On Monday, the WNBA Players Association announced they are opting out of the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed in 2020.
The news shouldn’t come as a massive surprise: the WNBA had arguably its most successful campaign and the original CBA included an opt-out clause in 2024.
“The WNBPA Board of Player Representatives and WNBPA Executive Committee have decided to opt out of the 2020 WNBA/WNBPA CBA on behalf of the collective,” the organization announced on Monday, just one day after the conclusion of the 2024 WNBA Finals. “It’s Business.”
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Reese is amongst a select group of 26 players (four more will be announced) who will participate in the Unrivaled 3v3 basketball league starting in January. Organized by stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, the league will off a domestic offseason option for players to make six-figure salaries.
For Reese, the chance of players having equity in the league is enticing. It appears that is something she would likely advocate for in the WNBA.
“I’m excited for the league’s first season!” Reese told Athlon Sports. “It’s amazing to be a part of a league that gives equity to players. I’m looking forward to playing with the best athletes and really using the time to focus on my game and getting better too.”
WNBA stars Breanna Stewart (L) and Napheesa Collier (R) teamed up to start the Unrivaled basketball league (
Getty Images)
Last week, Reese was on Instagram Live when her salary was brought up. The Chicago star mentioned her rent is $8,000 a month, a figure her $73,469 salary would not be able to cover, making it clear she is also looking for an increased salary in the future.
“I just hope you know the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all,” Reese said. “I don’t even think that pays one of my bills, literally. I don’t even know my salary. I’m living beyond my means.”
Reece announced a new partnership with Cash App on Monday. The financial service will feature an “Angel Reese Machine” giving fans in Chicago chances to earn gifts.
Players turn to alternate leagues like Unrivaled and sponsorships to supplement their income. This shouldn’t be the case considering the league just inked an 11-year media-rights deal with an annual value of $200 million.
“The players made the decision to opt out of the last CBA to realign the business and save the league from its own limitations,” WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson said.
“Today, with a stronger foundation and new investments flowing in, they’re opting out again — this time to fully professionalize the league, secure proper wages, improve working conditions, and lock in meaningful benefits.”
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