Chicago Sky star Angel Reese has never been one to shy away from speaking her mind, and her latest comments about WNBA earnings have sparked discussions about the league’s economic landscape. In a candid interview, Reese acknowledged the impact of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark on the WNBA’s financial growth while also asserting that, without Clark in the mix, she would be the league’s top money earner.

Reese’s Perspective on WNBA Marketability

Since entering the WNBA as the seventh overall pick in the 2024 draft, Reese has become one of the most marketable players in the league. Her dynamic presence on and off the court, combined with a strong fan following from her LSU days, has translated into lucrative endorsement deals. Companies like Reebok, Beats by Dre, and Raising Cane’s have all partnered with Reese, making her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball.

However, Reese believes her market value would be even higher if not for Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking influence. Clark, the No. 1 overall pick and former Iowa star, has set attendance and viewership records, drawing unprecedented levels of attention to the WNBA. Her jersey sales have skyrocketed, and her presence in the league has led to increased sponsorships, broadcasting deals, and overall revenue.

In a recent interview, Angel Reese opened up about the financial landscape of the WNBA, shedding light on how salaries and earnings are shaped by star players. She made a bold statement, suggesting that if Caitlin Clark weren’t in the league, she would likely be the highest-paid player and the biggest earner in the WNBA. This remark has sparked conversations and raised awareness about the pay structures in women’s professional basketball.

Reese, a notable player herself, didn’t hold back in her comments, highlighting the significant influence of prominent athletes like Clark. Clark’s popularity, skill, and media presence have undeniably elevated the WNBA’s profile, but Reese’s statement underlines how financial rewards in sports are often influenced by marketable stars. In this context, Reese suggests that her own potential earnings could be much higher if Clark weren’t such a dominant figure in the league, drawing attention away from other players.

This conversation touches on a wider issue in the sports world, where salaries are closely linked to player visibility and fan engagement. The WNBA, while growing in popularity, has not yet reached the level of financial prominence seen in other major leagues. As the women’s game continues to gain more recognition, the earnings of its top stars remain a topic of debate, especially when comparing them to the more lucrative deals in the men’s leagues

Angel Reese’s candid comment also speaks to the ongoing conversation about gender disparities in sports compensation. While female athletes are making incredible strides and pushing the limits of what’s possible, the financial support and endorsement deals still lag behind their male counterparts. Players like Clark and Reese, who consistently perform at the highest levels, are gradually drawing more attention to the need for more equitable pay in women’s sports.

As the WNBA continues to grow, it’s clear that player influence, visibility, and media presence are major factors in determining earnings. Whether or not Reese’s prediction comes to fruition remains to be seen, but her statement certainly shines a light on the evolving financial dynamics of women’s professional basketball.