How much money do WNBA players really make? If you’re curious about the numbers behind those dazzling passes and buzzer-beaters, you’re in the right place! Let’s break down the earnings in the Women’s National Basketball Association in a fun, simple way.
TL;DR
WNBA players earn less than their NBA counterparts, but salaries have been improving. The average salary in 2023 was around $120,000. Star players can make more, especially with bonuses and endorsements. There’s still a big pay gap, but things are changing!
What Is the Average Salary in the WNBA?
Let’s start with the big picture. On average, a WNBA player earns about $120,000 per season. That might sound like a lot, and it is in some ways—but when you compare it to the NBA, it’s a whole different game.
The minimum salary in the WNBA is about $62,000 for rookies. The maximum can go up to around $234,000 for top veteran players under the league’s current collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Rookie Minimum Salary: $62,285
- Veteran Minimum Salary (more than 3 years): $74,305
- Maximum Base Salary: $234,936
- Average Salary (2023 Season): About $120,000
Who Are the Top Earners?
Not all WNBA players earn the same. Just like in any job, experience, skill, and star power matter.
Here are a few top earners from recent seasons:
- Breanna Stewart – One of the highest-paid players, earning the max base salary and extra from bonuses.
- Diana Taurasi – A veteran superstar with several seasons of max pay under her belt.
- A’ja Wilson – A MVP with endorsements on top of her salary.
Many top players also earn additional money through prize bonuses for making the playoffs, being named to All-WNBA teams, or winning awards.
How Do WNBA Salaries Compare to NBA Salaries?
This is where things get really interesting. The average NBA player makes over $9 million per season. That’s nearly 75 times more than the average WNBA player!
Here’s a quick side-by-side:
| League | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| WNBA | $120,000 |
| NBA | $9,660,000 |
Why such a big gap? The NBA brings in billions of dollars in revenue, much of it from TV deals and large markets. The WNBA earns much less revenue—but it’s growing.
There’s More Than Just Salary
Players don’t just play for their base salary. Some make money in other ways.
1. Endorsements
Top players often have deals with brands like Nike, Adidas, or Gatorade. For some stars, endorsements can even earn them more than their WNBA contracts!
2. Overseas Play
A lot of WNBA players play in other countries during the off-season. In places like Russia, Turkey, China, and Australia, female basketball players can earn much more—sometimes six figures or even millions!
For example:
- Brittney Griner made over $1 million playing in Russia.
- Many WNBA players go overseas to double or triple their income.
Recent Improvements in Pay
Things are getting better. In 2020, the WNBA and Players Association signed a new CBA. It included:
- Higher salaries for all players
- Better travel and housing standards
- Paid maternity leave and family planning help
- Performance bonuses up to $250,000
This was a big step forward. The league is investing more in its players. And as the WNBA grows, so will the paychecks!
Other Perks and Benefits
In addition to their salary, WNBA players get perks like:
- Health and dental insurance
- 401(k) retirement plans with contributions from the league
- Education benefits
- Lifetime health benefits for veterans
It’s not all about the money, right? But these things do matter and make the job more appealing long-term.
Why the Pay Gap Exists
So why don’t WNBA players make as much?
Here are a few reasons:
- Revenue: The NBA makes way more money from tickets, merchandise, and TV deals.
- Audience: The NBA has a much bigger global fanbase.
- Investment: Women’s leagues haven’t gotten the same level of promotion or support for decades.
But good news! More fans are watching WNBA games than ever before, and companies are starting to invest more in women’s sports. The future looks bright.
Stars Who Lead the Way
Some WNBA players are changing the game—not just how it’s played, but how it’s valued. Players like:
- Sue Bird – Advocated for better pay before retiring.
- Breanna Stewart – Pushes for charter flights and equal treatment.
- Candace Parker – Superstar on and off the court; works as a broadcaster too!
These women aren’t just athletes—they’re role models and leaders helping shape the future of the sport.
In Summary
WNBA players are smart, skilled, and putting in the work. While most don’t take home NBA-level checks, salaries are improving. And with fans, brands, and networks showing more love, there’s hope for a payday boost in the near future.
Next time you watch a WNBA game, remember: behind every jump shot is a player fighting not just for a win, but for a future where athletes of all genders are paid fairly for their talents!