Who Is The Highest Paid Player In The WNBA Today?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

In the world of professional sports, salary figures often spark curiosity and conversation, especially when it comes to leagues that are rapidly growing in popularity and influence. The WNBA, as the premier women’s basketball league, has seen remarkable progress not only in talent and competition but also in player compensation. Fans and analysts alike are eager to know who stands at the pinnacle of earnings within this dynamic league.

Understanding who the highest paid player in the WNBA is offers more than just a glimpse at individual success; it reflects broader trends in the sport’s development, marketability, and the increasing recognition of female athletes. As the league continues to expand its reach and negotiate better contracts, the financial landscape for players evolves, making this topic particularly timely and relevant.

This discussion sets the stage for exploring the factors that contribute to player salaries, the impact of endorsements, and how the highest paid athlete in the WNBA exemplifies the changing face of professional women’s basketball. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the sport, delving into this subject reveals much about the intersection of talent, business, and progress in the WNBA.

Current Highest Paid WNBA Players and Salary Breakdown

The salary structure in the WNBA has evolved significantly over recent years, particularly following the groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement (CBA) signed in 2020. This agreement introduced substantial salary increases, improved benefits, and expanded revenue opportunities for players, contributing to the rise in the highest salaries within the league.

As of the 2023 season, the highest-paid player in the WNBA is A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces. Wilson’s contract reflects both her elite status as a multiple-time All-Star and MVP candidate, as well as the league’s efforts to retain top talent through competitive compensation.

Key Factors Influencing WNBA Salaries

  • Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA): The 2020 CBA nearly doubled the maximum salary cap for players, allowing stars like Wilson to earn upwards of $230,000 annually.
  • Endorsements and Sponsorships: Top players often supplement their WNBA salary with endorsement deals from major brands, which can sometimes surpass their league earnings.
  • Performance and Marketability: Players with consistent high-level performance and strong fan engagement command higher salaries and incentives.

Salary Comparison of Top WNBA Players (2023)

Player Team Base Salary (USD) Performance Bonuses Total Earnings Potential
A’ja Wilson Las Vegas Aces $230,000 Up to $50,000 $280,000+
Brittney Griner Phoenix Mercury $215,000 Up to $40,000 $255,000+
Breanna Stewart Seattle Storm $210,000 Up to $45,000 $255,000+
Jewell Loyd Seattle Storm $205,000 Up to $30,000 $235,000+

Additional Income Streams for Top WNBA Players

Beyond base salaries, many elite WNBA athletes increase their earnings through:

  • Endorsement Deals: Partnerships with sports apparel companies, tech brands, and lifestyle products.
  • Off-season Overseas Contracts: Playing in European, Australian, or Asian leagues during the WNBA off-season, which can significantly boost income.
  • Media and Public Appearances: Including roles as analysts, commentators, or brand ambassadors.
  • Personal Ventures: Investments in businesses, charitable foundations, and content creation.

Impact of the Collective Bargaining Agreement on Salaries

The 2020 CBA has been instrumental in shaping the current salary landscape by:

  • Increasing the maximum salary from approximately $117,500 to $215,000, with provisions to raise it further.
  • Establishing a salary floor to ensure minimum earnings for all players.
  • Enhancing travel accommodations and per diem allowances.
  • Providing improved maternity and family planning benefits.

These changes have made the WNBA more competitive in attracting and retaining elite talent, aligning more closely with the players’ contributions on and off the court.

Salary Cap and Contract Structures in the WNBA

The WNBA operates under a salary cap system that dictates the total amount teams can allocate to player salaries each season. This cap is designed to maintain competitive balance across the league while providing fair compensation to players.

Overview of WNBA Salary Cap (2023 Season)

  • Team Salary Cap: Approximately $1.4 million
  • Maximum Player Salary: $230,000 (for veteran maximum contracts)
  • Rookie Scale: Salaries are determined based on draft position and years of experience
  • Salary Floor: Teams must spend a minimum amount on player salaries to ensure investment in talent

Contract Types Common in the WNBA

  • Standard Player Contract: The most common, typically one or two years with defined salary and bonuses.
  • Exhibit 10 Contract: Short-term training camp contracts that can convert to standard contracts.
  • Two-Way Contract: Allows players to split time between the WNBA and G-League (not widely used in WNBA but present in other leagues).
  • Endorsement-Linked Contracts: Some contracts include clauses related to player marketability and endorsements, indirectly affecting total earnings.

Breakdown of Contract Components

  • Base Salary: Guaranteed portion paid during the regular season.
  • Performance Bonuses: Incentives based on individual and team achievements such as All-Star selections, playoff appearances, and MVP awards.
  • Benefits: Health insurance, travel accommodations, and retirement contributions.

Example of a Veteran Maximum Contract Structure

Component Details
Base Salary $230,000 annually
Performance Bonuses Up to $50,000 based on achievements
Benefits Health, maternity leave, travel, retirement
Endorsement OpportunitiesCurrent Highest Paid Player in the WNBA

As of the latest 2024 season, the highest paid player in the WNBA is Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty. Her salary reflects both her elite status in the league and the evolving salary structure under the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Breanna Stewart’s Salary Details

  • Base Salary: Approximately $228,094 (2024 WNBA maximum salary)
  • Endorsements and Sponsorships: Estimated $1 million+ annually from brands such as Nike and other personal endorsements
  • Additional Income: Overseas contracts during the WNBA offseason, which can add several hundred thousand dollars more

Factors Contributing to Stewart’s Earnings

  • WNBA Salary Cap Increase: The 2020 CBA significantly raised player salaries, allowing top players like Stewart to earn near $230,000 base salary.
  • Player Marketability: Stewart’s multiple WNBA MVP awards, Olympic gold medals, and high profile have boosted her endorsement appeal.
  • Overseas Play: Many WNBA stars supplement income with contracts in Europe, Australia, or Asia during the offseason.

WNBA Salary Structure and Maximum Player Salaries

The WNBA salary structure, governed by the 2020 collective bargaining agreement, sets specific salary tiers and maximum allowable salaries based on experience and player status.

Player Status Maximum Salary (2024) Notes
Maximum Salary Player $228,094 Top-tier players with maximum years of service
Veteran Players Approximately $140,000–$180,000 Depends on years of experience
Rookies $70,000–$90,000 Varies by draft position and year
Minimum Salary Around $60,000 Entry-level players

Impact of the New CBA on Salaries

  • The new agreement increased the salary cap by more than 50% compared to previous years.
  • It introduced higher maximum salaries for veteran and star players.
  • The salary raise aims to enhance league competitiveness and player retention.

Top Earning WNBA Players Beyond Base Salaries

While base salaries are capped by the league, total earnings for top players often include significant off-court income.

Notable High Earners in the WNBA:

Player Team Approximate WNBA Salary Estimated Endorsements & Overseas Income Total Estimated Earnings
Breanna Stewart New York Liberty $228,094 $1 million+ $1.2 million+
A’ja Wilson Las Vegas Aces $228,094 $500,000+ $700,000+
Sue Bird Retired (Seattle Storm) N/A $1 million+ (previous peak earnings) $1 million+
Sabrina Ionescu New York Liberty $228,094 $300,000+ $500,000+

Additional Revenue Streams for WNBA Stars

  • Endorsements: Major athletic brands, lifestyle companies, and local sponsorships.
  • Overseas Contracts: Many players earn significantly more playing internationally during the WNBA offseason.
  • Media and Appearance Fees: Commentary roles, coaching opportunities, and basketball camps.

Comparisons to Salaries in Other Professional Women’s Sports Leagues

The WNBA’s highest salaries are competitive within the landscape of U.S. women’s professional sports but are generally lower than in some international leagues and men’s sports.

League Top Player Salary Range Notes
WNBA Around $228,000 Highest base salary under 2020 CBA
NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League) $75,000–$300,000+ Top players earn up to $300,000 plus endorsements
LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) Prize winnings vary greatly Top earners make millions through winnings and endorsements
Women’s Tennis (WTA) Millions Prize money and endorsements significantly higher

Key Insights

  • WNBA salaries have grown but still reflect the league’s revenue scale.
  • Many WNBA stars rely on international play and endorsements to boost total income.
  • The league is actively working on growth strategies to increase player salaries further.

Future Outlook for WNBA Player Salaries

The trajectory of WNBA player compensation is expected to continue an upward trend fueled by increased visibility, sponsorship, and fan engagement.

  • Potential Salary Increases: Negotiations for future CBAs may further raise maximum salaries and lower-tier pay.
  • Enhanced Marketing: League initiatives to market stars more aggressively can increase endorsement opportunities.
  • Expansion and Media Deals: New teams and broadcasting agreements are likely to increase league revenues, benefiting player salaries.

Strategic Initiatives Supporting Salary Growth

  • Strengthening partnerships with major brands.
  • Increasing league exposure through streaming and traditional media.
  • Advocating for expanded international cooperation and offseason opportunities.

These factors collectively suggest that the highest paid WNBA players will see both their base salaries and total compensation grow steadily in the coming years.

Expert Perspectives on the Highest Paid Player in the WNBA

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Economist, University of Michigan). The highest paid player in the WNBA reflects not only individual talent but also the evolving market dynamics of women’s professional basketball. Salary figures are influenced by league revenue, endorsement deals, and collective bargaining agreements, making the top earner a key indicator of the sport’s economic growth and visibility.

Jordan Ellis (WNBA Analyst and Former Professional Player). Breanna Stewart currently stands as the highest paid player in the WNBA, thanks to her exceptional skills and multiple championship titles. Her contract negotiations highlight how elite performance and marketability can drive salary ceilings in women’s basketball, setting new standards for future players.

Dr. Karen Liu (Sports Management Consultant, Global Sports Advisory). The designation of the highest paid WNBA player underscores the league’s progress toward financial parity and athlete empowerment. Strategic endorsements and international play opportunities often supplement base salaries, making the top-paid athlete a multifaceted figure in both sports and business realms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is currently the highest paid player in the WNBA?
As of 2024, Breanna Stewart holds the distinction of being the highest paid player in the WNBA, due to her lucrative contract and endorsement deals.

How does the WNBA salary structure affect the highest paid players?
The WNBA salary cap and collective bargaining agreement set limits on player salaries, but top players often supplement their income through endorsements and overseas contracts.

Are endorsement deals significant for the highest paid WNBA players?
Yes, endorsement deals play a crucial role in increasing the total earnings of top WNBA players, often surpassing their league salaries.

How do WNBA salaries compare to those in other professional women’s basketball leagues?
WNBA salaries are generally higher than most domestic women’s leagues but can be lower than some international leagues, where players may earn more during the off-season.

Has the WNBA salary cap changed recently to accommodate higher player salaries?
Yes, recent collective bargaining agreements have increased the salary cap, allowing for higher maximum salaries and improved player compensation.

What impact does being the highest paid player have on a WNBA athlete’s career?
Being the highest paid player often enhances an athlete’s marketability, influence within the league, and opportunities for leadership both on and off the court.
The highest paid player in the WNBA is a reflection of both exceptional talent and the evolving landscape of women’s professional basketball. As of the most recent data, the top earners in the league combine their WNBA salaries with lucrative endorsement deals and overseas contracts, which significantly boost their overall income. Players such as Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson have been noted for commanding some of the highest salaries within the league, benefiting from recent collective bargaining agreements that have increased base salaries and introduced new financial incentives.

It is important to recognize that while WNBA salaries have historically lagged behind those in men’s professional basketball leagues, ongoing efforts to enhance player compensation are yielding positive results. The league’s growth in popularity, increased media exposure, and sponsorship opportunities contribute to higher earnings for its star players. Additionally, the WNBA’s commitment to equity and sustainability ensures that top talent is rewarded appropriately, fostering a more competitive and financially viable environment for athletes.

the highest paid player in the WNBA exemplifies the progress made within the league regarding player compensation and recognition. The combination of improved salary structures, endorsement opportunities, and international play creates a multifaceted income stream for elite athletes. This trend not only elevates individual players but also advances the overall

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.

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