Before Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese entered the WNBA, the league was facing significant financial challenges, struggling to increase viewership, merchandise sales, and ticket revenue. Despite substantial NBA subsidies, the league was losing approximately $10 million annually. However, the arrival of these superstar rookies has transformed the WNBA’s landscape, leading to unprecedented growth but also increased expenses, such as new chartered flights arranged to resolve security concerns, which now contribute to the league’s losses reaching an estimated $50 million. While costs have surged, revenue has simultaneously risen, fueled by the young stars who have attracted a broader fan base, increased merchandise sales, and boosted ticket attendance.
Games featuring Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese regularly draw over a million viewers, a stark contrast to the previously modest audience numbers. Venues are nearly full, and merchandise has blossomed into a $4 billion industry. This surge in financial activity has led players to push for a more equitable share of league revenue. Currently, WNBA players receive only 9% of the league’s earnings, compared to 50% in the NBA. Players advocate for a substantial increase to improve salaries and benefits, reflecting their growing importance to the league’s success.
Examining the reasons behind the call for improved player compensation
Some argue that the increased revenue leans heavily on the popularity brought by Caitlin Clark and a few other standout players. The league aims to safeguard its finances against future uncertainties, yet there are multiple compelling reasons why these athletes deserve better pay. The widening gap between player contributions and compensation highlights ongoing disparities, especially as stars like Clark and Reese draw new attention but acknowledge the foundational efforts of other players who already populate the league.
Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and the emergence of new fan bases
Much of the spotlight has been on Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and a few others, yet many fans initially lacked awareness of the league’s other players. This unfamiliarity previously created disparities in viewership, merchandise sales, and All-Star voting. For example, despite her experience and status as the best player in the WNBA, A’ja Wilson’s merchandise sales were outpaced by Iowa’s Kate Martin, a second-round draft pick initially expected to struggle in the league. Recently, however, attention has broadened thanks to new fans introduced to a wider roster of athletes through the popularity of Clark and Reese.
The 2025 All-Star votes reflected this trend. Clark set a new league record for votes, while Napheesa Collier, who had minimal votes the prior season, amassed over 1.1 million. Although Reese fell outside the top 10 due to early-season struggles, the increased fan engagement with a variety of players signals a deeper interest in the league beyond just the buzzy newcomers. This shift suggests that the WNBA’s growth is not solely tied to a handful of stars but involves greater recognition of the entire player pool.
The next generation of talent continuing Clark and Reese’s momentum
The 2025 All-Star fan vote also highlighted rising stars like Paige Bueckers and Kiki Iriafen, who secured sixth and tenth place, respectively. Bueckers brings a substantial fanbase, while Iriafen’s impressive performances alone earned her significant support. Along with Sonia Citron, these rookies have made history by generating unprecedented fan interest. Discussions about future waves of talent are gaining traction, fueled by increased enthusiasm for women’s college basketball and close attention to high school prospects who could impact the league in coming years.
This broadening talent pool is raising overall excitement and expanding the league’s appeal. As fresh, dynamic players join the WNBA, the distribution of skill and marketability will become more balanced, fostering further revenue growth across ticket sales, merchandising, and viewership.
Challenges posed by alternative leagues and international competition
The increase in talent benefits the WNBA’s visibility, but alternative opportunities threaten to disrupt the league’s dominance. Players who feel undercompensated may consider options such as the Unrivaled league or European teams, where salaries can be more than double what the WNBA offers. While top rookies like Clark and Reese earn substantial endorsement deals that offset their comparatively low WNBA salaries, most drafts and prospects do not enjoy such financial security.
As the WNBA seeks to expand and add more players, it must address salary competitiveness to retain talent. Otherwise, promising athletes may be drawn away by leagues willing to provide better pay and benefits. Without competitive salaries, the league risks forfeiting its growth momentum and allows rivals to capitalize on emerging stars.
Economic growth of the WNBA and the case for fair player compensation
The surge in popularity and value has significantly increased team valuations, with some franchises now worth hundreds of millions of dollars. This economic growth results mainly from the performances and fan engagement driven by the talent of players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. If team owners benefit substantially, it is reasonable to argue that players, whose efforts underpin this success, should also receive greater financial rewards.
The threat of a competing league offering higher pay and better contractual terms could further pressure the WNBA to address player compensation. The experience of college sports, where name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals shifted traditional loyalties, suggests that athletes will prioritize opportunities offering fair compensation and benefits. Addressing these concerns is critical for the league to sustain its current growth and ensure the continued participation of its top talent.
“She’s an Absolute Hero and Legend” —Alexander Zverev
“This Would Be New Challenge” —Alex Pereira
“Coach” Caitlin Clark Trolls All-Star Teammates for Blowing Her Play Design in Loss —attributed indirectly through context, no direct quote provided here.
In summary, Caitlin Clark’s arrival alongside fellow young stars like Angel Reese has catalyzed a transformative era for the WNBA. Growth in viewership, merchandise, and attendance demonstrates these players’ immense impact, yet their compensation does not yet align with their contribution. As the league continues to expand and faces competition from alternative leagues and overseas opportunities, addressing the pay gap becomes essential for long-term sustainability and preserving talent. The future of the WNBA will depend on balancing financial stability with recognizing the athletes who drive its success.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark was spotted in the same suite as Swift at Arrowhead Stadium during the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Texans on Saturday. This marks their first time being seen together at a game. Clark mentioned that Swift invited her to attend earlier in the season.
Q. Why is Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor?
A. In a conversation last December, Caitlin Clark mentioned that Taylor Swift asked her to attend a Kansas City Chiefs game with her. It seems Clark accepted the offer. Clark and Swift were seen together in a private box at the Chiefs-Texans playoff game on January 18 at Arrowhead Stadium.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift gifted Caitlin Clark every T-shirt and sweatshirt from her Eras Tour collection. During the 2024 concert in Indianapolis, Caitlin Clark, the WNBA star, got four bags of merchandise thanks to Taylor.
Q. Is Caitlin Clark hanging out with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark mentioned that she and Swift really enjoyed themselves at the playoff game in Kansas City, describing it as the ideal game to attend with Swift. Clark added that it’s adorable to see Swift’s enthusiasm for the Chiefs. She felt happy to share that experience, saying, “I love this!”