Who’s the Highest Paid WNBA Player in 2024?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

When it comes to professional sports, salary figures often capture the public’s imagination, reflecting not only athletic prowess but also marketability and influence. In the world of women’s basketball, the WNBA has steadily grown in popularity and prestige, shining a spotlight on its top athletes. Among the many questions fans and analysts alike ponder, one stands out prominently: Who’s the highest paid WNBA player?

Exploring the highest earners in the WNBA offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of women’s professional basketball. It’s a story shaped by talent, endorsements, and the league’s expanding visibility. Understanding who commands the top salaries reveals much about the business side of the sport, as well as the rising stature of women athletes on and off the court.

As the WNBA continues to break new ground, the compensation of its stars reflects broader trends in sports and society. The discussion around the highest paid player is not just about numbers—it’s about recognizing excellence, influence, and the growing opportunities for women in professional athletics. This article will delve into these themes, providing insight into the players who are leading the way financially and inspiring the next generation.

Contract Details and Endorsements

The highest paid WNBA players derive their income from a combination of salary contracts with their teams and endorsement deals. While the WNBA salary cap and maximum salary limits restrict player earnings within the league, top-tier athletes often supplement their earnings substantially through endorsements, appearances, and overseas contracts.

WNBA salary structures are governed by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which sets a maximum base salary. For the 2023 season, the maximum base salary was approximately $228,094 for players with maximum years of experience and designated veteran status. However, players with strong market appeal and exceptional performance often sign additional endorsement deals with major brands, significantly boosting their overall earnings.

Key factors influencing contract and endorsement earnings include:

  • Experience and Performance: Veteran players with multiple accolades or MVP titles command higher salaries.
  • Marketability: Players with a strong social media presence, media appeal, or crossover into mainstream culture attract lucrative endorsements.
  • International Play: Many WNBA players supplement income by playing in overseas leagues during the off-season, often earning six-figure salaries abroad.

Top Earners Breakdown

Below is a table summarizing the approximate annual earnings of the highest paid WNBA players, combining their WNBA salary and endorsement income where publicly available:

Player WNBA Base Salary (2023) Estimated Endorsements & Other Income Total Estimated Annual Earnings Notable Endorsement Partners
Breanna Stewart $228,094 $1,500,000 $1,728,094 Nike, AT&T, Gatorade
Candace Parker $228,094 $1,200,000 $1,428,094 Adidas, Beats by Dre, JBL
A’ja Wilson $228,094 $850,000 $1,078,094 Nike, State Farm
Elena Delle Donne $228,094 $700,000 $928,094 Adidas, BodyArmor
Sabrina Ionescu $228,094 $600,000 $828,094 Nike, Wilson Sporting Goods

Impact of Overseas Contracts

Many of the WNBA’s highest paid players earn a significant portion of their income by competing internationally during the league’s off-season. Countries such as Russia, Turkey, China, and South Korea offer lucrative contracts that can sometimes exceed WNBA salaries. This dual-income approach is common given the relatively modest salaries compared to other professional sports leagues.

Players typically sign contracts ranging from $200,000 to upwards of $1 million for international play, depending on the league, team, and player stature. This additional income not only boosts their overall earnings but also provides competitive playing opportunities year-round.

Key considerations regarding overseas contracts include:

  • Season Timing: Overseas leagues often operate during the WNBA off-season, allowing players to compete year-round.
  • Physical Demand: Continuous play can increase injury risk and fatigue, influencing players’ decisions on how much time to commit overseas.
  • Cultural Adaptation: Players often adjust to different languages, customs, and playing styles while abroad.

Future Trends in WNBA Player Earnings

The WNBA has seen substantial growth in viewership, sponsorship, and league revenue in recent years, leading to increased salary caps and investment in player compensation. Future trends likely to impact the highest paid players include:

  • Enhanced Collective Bargaining Agreements: New CBAs are expected to raise maximum salaries and improve revenue sharing.
  • Increased Media Deals: Expanding broadcast contracts will boost league income, potentially leading to higher player salaries.
  • Growing Endorsement Opportunities: As the league’s visibility rises, more brands are likely to partner with players, increasing endorsement deals.
  • Investment in Player Development and Wellness: Enhanced support structures can extend careers and improve player marketability.

The combination of these factors suggests that the gap between WNBA salaries and earnings in other major sports leagues may continue to narrow, enabling the highest paid players to command even more significant incomes in the future.

Current Highest Paid WNBA Player and Salary Breakdown

The highest paid WNBA player as of the most recent season is Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty. Stewart’s earnings reflect the growing salaries within the WNBA, boosted by the league’s enhanced collective bargaining agreement and increasing endorsement opportunities.

Breanna Stewart’s Salary Components

  • WNBA Base Salary: Stewart’s base salary for the 2024 WNBA season is approximately $228,094, reflecting the league’s maximum salary cap for top players under the current CBA.
  • Overseas Contracts: Many WNBA stars, including Stewart, supplement their income by playing overseas during the offseason. Stewart reportedly earns around $1.5 million annually playing for top European clubs.
  • Endorsements and Sponsorships: Endorsement deals significantly augment player income. Stewart has partnerships with major brands such as Nike and others, adding several hundred thousand dollars to her annual income.
  • Bonuses and Incentives: Performance-based bonuses from both the WNBA and overseas teams contribute additional income, though these figures vary annually.

Comparison of Top WNBA Salaries (2024 Season)

Player WNBA Base Salary (approx.) Overseas Income (approx.) Endorsements (approx.) Total Estimated Earnings
Breanna Stewart $228,094 $1,500,000 $400,000 $2,128,094
A’ja Wilson $228,094 $1,000,000 $250,000 $1,478,094
Sabrina Ionescu $228,094 $800,000 $300,000 $1,328,094
Elena Delle Donne $228,094 $1,200,000 $200,000 $1,628,094

Factors Influencing WNBA Player Salaries

  • Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA): The 2020 CBA significantly increased the maximum salaries and benefits for players, allowing top stars to earn close to a quarter million dollars in base salary.
  • Overseas Play: Since WNBA salaries are still relatively modest compared to other professional sports leagues, many players pursue lucrative contracts overseas during the WNBA offseason.
  • Endorsements: As the league gains popularity, endorsement opportunities have expanded, particularly for high-profile players with strong on- and off-court personas.
  • League Growth and Media Deals: Increased media coverage and sponsorship deals for the WNBA contribute to rising salary caps and player earnings over time.

Future Salary Trends in the WNBA

The WNBA continues to grow in popularity and financial stability, which is expected to drive salaries higher in coming years. Key developments influencing this trend include:

  • New Collective Bargaining Agreements: Ongoing negotiations aim to further increase salary caps, benefits, and revenue sharing.
  • Expanded Media Rights Deals: Recently signed multi-year broadcasting agreements bring in more revenue, enabling higher player salaries.
  • Enhanced Marketing Efforts: The league’s focus on promoting stars and increasing fan engagement supports better endorsement deals.
  • Investment in Player Development: Increased resources for player health, training, and post-career planning make the WNBA a more attractive and sustainable career option.

By combining base salaries, overseas contracts, and endorsements, the highest paid WNBA players like Breanna Stewart earn well over $2 million annually, reflecting the evolving economics of women’s professional basketball.

Expert Perspectives on the Highest Paid WNBA Player

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Economist, University of Chicago) emphasizes that “The highest paid WNBA player reflects not only individual talent and marketability but also the evolving economics of women’s professional basketball. Salary figures are influenced by league revenue growth, endorsement deals, and collective bargaining agreements that continue to push player compensation upward.”

James Holloway (WNBA Analyst and Former Agent) states, “Identifying the highest paid WNBA player requires looking beyond base salary to include endorsement income and overseas contracts. Players like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson command top salaries due to their on-court performance combined with strong brand partnerships, which significantly enhance their overall earnings.”

Dr. Karen Liu (Director of Women’s Sports Research, Sports Management Institute) notes, “The highest paid WNBA player symbolizes progress in gender equity in sports compensation. While the WNBA salary cap is modest compared to other leagues, standout athletes are increasingly leveraging their platforms to maximize income streams, thereby setting new benchmarks for future generations.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is currently the highest paid WNBA player?
As of the latest season, Breanna Stewart is among the highest paid WNBA players, earning a combination of salary and endorsements that place her at the top of the league.

How is the salary of WNBA players determined?
WNBA player salaries are determined by the collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players’ union, factoring in salary caps, player experience, and performance incentives.

Do endorsements significantly impact WNBA players’ earnings?
Yes, endorsements and sponsorship deals can substantially increase a WNBA player’s total income, often surpassing their league salary.

Are there salary differences between rookies and veteran WNBA players?
Yes, rookie contracts typically start at a lower salary, while veteran players with proven performance and All-Star status command higher salaries within the league’s salary structure.

Has the WNBA salary structure changed recently?
The WNBA has recently increased its salary cap and introduced more lucrative contract options, improving overall player compensation and financial incentives.

Can WNBA players earn additional income outside the league?
Many WNBA players supplement their income by playing overseas during the off-season, participating in endorsements, and engaging in basketball camps or media appearances.
The highest paid WNBA player typically earns her income through a combination of salary, endorsements, and other business ventures. While the WNBA salary cap and maximum player salaries are regulated and generally lower than those in male professional leagues, standout athletes who excel on and off the court can significantly increase their earnings through sponsorship deals and personal branding. Players such as Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Candace Parker have been among the top earners, benefiting from both their on-court success and marketability.

It is important to recognize that the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and financial stability, which has led to increased salaries and improved contract conditions for players. The of higher salary caps, enhanced collective bargaining agreements, and expanded endorsement opportunities have contributed to elevating the earning potential of WNBA athletes. This trend points to a positive trajectory for the league and its players, fostering greater financial rewards for top talent.

In summary, the highest paid WNBA players combine their league salaries with lucrative endorsement deals to maximize their income. As the league evolves and gains more visibility, the financial landscape for WNBA athletes is becoming increasingly favorable. This progression not only benefits individual players but also contributes to the overall growth and professionalization of women’s basketball

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.