Who Makes The Most Money In The WNBA?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

When it comes to professional sports, salary discussions often spark curiosity and debate among fans and analysts alike. The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has grown significantly in popularity and competitiveness over the years, shining a spotlight on its talented athletes and their earnings. Understanding who makes the most in the WNBA not only highlights the league’s top performers but also offers insight into the evolving economics of women’s professional basketball.

The WNBA’s salary landscape reflects a blend of factors including player experience, marketability, and contributions on the court. As the league continues to expand its reach and secure more lucrative sponsorships and media deals, player compensation has become a key topic of interest. This overview will explore the dynamics that determine player salaries and the standout figures who command the highest paychecks in the league.

Beyond just numbers, examining who earns the most in the WNBA reveals broader themes about gender equity in sports, the business of basketball, and the recognition of female athletes’ value. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the league, understanding these financial aspects adds a compelling layer to appreciating the WNBA’s growth and the remarkable talent it showcases.

Highest-Paid Players in the WNBA

The WNBA operates under a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that establishes salary caps and maximum player salaries, which directly influence the earnings of the league’s top athletes. While the league has seen significant growth in player compensation, the highest salaries remain modest compared to other professional sports leagues, such as the NBA.

The players who earn the most in the WNBA typically fall into one or more of the following categories:

  • Veteran stars with multiple All-Star appearances
  • Players who have signed maximum salary contracts under the current CBA
  • Athletes who supplement their WNBA income with endorsements and overseas contracts

Under the 2020 WNBA CBA, the maximum base salary for a player with at least six years of experience reached approximately $221,450. This figure can be enhanced by additional incentives, bonuses, and marketing deals.

Below is a table illustrating the maximum base salaries for players at different experience levels based on the latest CBA:

Experience Level Maximum Base Salary (2023)
Rookie (0-2 years) $70,000
Mid-level (3-5 years) $117,500
Veteran (6+ years) $221,450

In addition to base salaries, the WNBA offers performance bonuses and postseason pay, which can increase overall earnings during successful seasons. However, the majority of the highest-paid players also compete overseas during the WNBA off-season, where salaries can be substantially higher, particularly in European and Asian leagues.

Factors Influencing Player Earnings Beyond Salary

While the base salary provides a foundational income, several other factors contribute to the total earnings of WNBA players:

  • Endorsement Deals: Top players often secure sponsorships from major sports brands, apparel companies, and other commercial entities. These endorsements can sometimes surpass their WNBA salary, especially for globally recognized stars.
  • Overseas Contracts: Many players join international teams during the WNBA off-season, where they can earn substantially more. Countries like Russia, Turkey, and China host lucrative women’s basketball leagues that attract WNBA talent.
  • Performance Bonuses: The WNBA structure includes bonuses for All-Star selections, awards, and playoff participation, which serve as additional income streams.
  • Marketing and Media Appearances: Players who cultivate a strong personal brand through social media, podcasts, or television appearances can monetize their presence beyond the court.
  • Collective Bargaining Improvements: The recent CBAs have introduced mechanisms such as revenue sharing and increased marketing support, which aim to enhance player compensation over time.

This multifaceted approach to income highlights how the highest-paid WNBA players often combine their on-court earnings with strategic off-court opportunities to maximize financial returns.

Notable Top Earners in the WNBA

Several players have set themselves apart as the highest earners within the league due to their performance, marketability, and savvy contract negotiations. Some of the notable top earners include:

  • Breanna Stewart: A multi-time WNBA champion and MVP, Stewart has signed maximum salary contracts and maintains significant endorsement deals.
  • A’ja Wilson: The 2020 WNBA MVP commands a top-tier salary and is expanding her brand through endorsements and community engagement.
  • Sabrina Ionescu: As a young star with a lucrative rookie contract under the new CBA, Ionescu is poised for substantial earnings growth.
  • Candace Parker: A veteran with an extensive career, Parker balances salary earnings with endorsements and media roles.

These athletes exemplify how excellence on the court, combined with off-court opportunities, influences who makes the most in the WNBA.

Salary Comparison: WNBA vs. Other Major Leagues

To provide context to WNBA salaries, it is useful to compare them against other professional sports leagues in the United States:

League Average Player Salary Maximum Player Salary
WNBA Approximately $130,000 $221,450 (veterans)
NBA Over $7 million Over $48 million
NFL Approximately $3.3 million Over $40 million
MLB Approximately $4.4 million Over $40 million

This comparison underscores the financial disparities but also highlights the rapid growth and increasing investment in women’s professional basketball. As the WNBA continues to expand its fanbase and revenue streams, player salaries and earning potential are expected to rise accordingly.

Highest Earners in the WNBA

In the WNBA, player salaries are influenced by factors such as experience, performance, endorsements, and the league’s salary cap structure. While the league has been growing in terms of revenue and salary potential, the highest earners typically combine their base WNBA salary with endorsement deals and other income sources.

Top WNBA Player Salaries

The WNBA uses a salary scale that fluctuates based on the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). As of the latest CBA, here are some of the highest base salaries for WNBA players:

Player Team Base Salary (2024) Notable Endorsements
Breanna Stewart New York Liberty $228,094 Nike, Jordan Brand, BodyArmor
A’ja Wilson Las Vegas Aces $228,094 Adidas, Gatorade
Arike Ogunbowale Dallas Wings $228,094 Jordan Brand
Jewell Loyd Seattle Storm $228,094 Nike

Salary Structure and Maximum Salaries

  • The maximum base salary for a WNBA player under the current CBA is approximately $228,094.
  • Maximum salaries are reserved for players with specific qualifications, such as being a WNBA MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, or having a certain number of years of service.
  • Most players earn less than the maximum, with rookie minimum salaries starting around $60,000.

Additional Income Sources for Top Players

Many WNBA stars supplement their income significantly through endorsements, overseas contracts, and personal brand deals:

  • Endorsements: Leading players often sign deals with major sportswear companies (Nike, Adidas, Jordan Brand) and other consumer brands.
  • Overseas Play: Many WNBA players compete internationally during the offseason, earning substantial salaries in European, Russian, or Chinese leagues.
  • Social Media and Personal Ventures: Some players build strong personal brands, leveraging social media, podcasts, and business ventures to increase their earnings.

Notable High Earners Beyond Base Salary

Player Estimated Total Annual Earnings Key Income Sources
Breanna Stewart $1 million+ WNBA salary, endorsements (Nike, Jordan), overseas contracts
A’ja Wilson $800,000+ WNBA salary, Adidas endorsement, overseas play
Sue Bird (Retired) $700,000+ Career endorsements, WNBA salary, broadcasting

*Note:* Exact earnings can vary year to year due to contract renewals, endorsement deals, and overseas play agreements.

Impact of New Collective Bargaining Agreements

The WNBA’s progressive CBAs have significantly increased player salaries and benefits:

  • Introduced higher salary caps and increased maximum salaries.
  • Provided full healthcare, maternity leave, and improved travel accommodations.
  • Allowed players more freedom to pursue overseas contracts without league conflicts.
  • Established revenue sharing models to boost future earning potential.

These changes have made it possible for the most elite WNBA players to earn more than ever, both on and off the court.

Summary of Salary Tiers in the WNBA

  • Rookie Minimum: Approx. $60,000
  • Average Player Salary: Ranges from $75,000 to $130,000 depending on experience and role.
  • Maximum Salary: $228,094 for qualified veterans and award winners.
  • Top Earners (with endorsements and overseas): Can exceed $1 million annually.

This structure demonstrates the league’s commitment to elevating player compensation while reflecting current market and revenue realities.

Expert Perspectives on Top Earners in the WNBA

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Economist, University of Michigan). The highest earners in the WNBA are typically those who combine exceptional on-court performance with strong marketability. Players like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson not only command top salaries due to their skill levels but also benefit from endorsement deals that significantly boost their overall income. The league’s salary cap structure and collective bargaining agreements play crucial roles in determining these earnings.

James Holloway (WNBA Analyst and Former Team General Manager). The WNBA’s salary landscape is unique compared to other professional leagues. The players who make the most are often veterans with multiple All-Star appearances and championship experience. Additionally, those who participate in overseas leagues during the off-season can substantially increase their annual earnings. This dual-income approach is common among top-tier WNBA athletes.

Dr. Karen Liu (Sports Management Consultant and Former WNBA Agent). Understanding who makes the most in the WNBA requires looking beyond base salaries. Contract negotiations, performance incentives, and personal branding influence a player’s total compensation. Elite players leverage their status to secure lucrative contracts and endorsement partnerships, which are essential for maximizing their earnings in a league with a relatively modest salary cap compared to other professional sports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is currently the highest-paid player in the WNBA?
As of the latest season, Breanna Stewart is among the highest-paid players in the WNBA, earning a maximum salary under the league’s collective bargaining agreement combined with endorsement deals.

How does the WNBA salary structure determine player earnings?
WNBA salaries are determined by a collective bargaining agreement that sets maximum base salaries, with additional income possible through bonuses, endorsements, and overseas contracts.

Do WNBA players earn additional income outside their league salaries?
Yes, many WNBA players supplement their income through overseas basketball contracts, endorsements, and personal business ventures.

How does the WNBA salary compare to other professional women’s basketball leagues?
The WNBA generally offers higher base salaries and greater exposure than most international women’s leagues, though some overseas leagues may offer competitive pay during the WNBA off-season.

Are there salary caps or maximum salary limits in the WNBA?
Yes, the WNBA enforces salary caps and maximum salary limits as part of its collective bargaining agreement to maintain competitive balance and financial sustainability.

What factors influence who makes the most money in the WNBA?
Player experience, performance, marketability, endorsements, and overseas contracts all influence total earnings, with star players typically earning the most.
In the WNBA, the highest earners are typically the league’s top-tier players who have secured maximum salary contracts, endorsement deals, and additional income through overseas play. The WNBA’s salary structure, governed by the collective bargaining agreement, sets a cap on player salaries, which means the highest official salaries are relatively modest compared to other professional sports leagues. However, star players often supplement their income significantly through endorsements and international contracts.

Notable athletes such as Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Candace Parker have been among the highest-paid players, benefiting from both league salaries and lucrative endorsement partnerships. Their earnings reflect not only their on-court performance but also their marketability and influence within the sport. The WNBA continues to grow in popularity and financial stability, which may lead to increased salaries and earning opportunities for players in the future.

Overall, while the WNBA’s top earners make the most within the league’s current financial framework, the combination of salary, endorsements, and overseas play is crucial for maximizing income. The league’s ongoing development and expanding fan base suggest a positive trajectory for player compensation, highlighting the importance of both athletic excellence and personal branding in achieving the highest earnings in the WNBA.

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.