At the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game held on July 19 at Indiana Fever’s Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena, all participating players wore black t-shirts emblazoned with the phrase
“Pay Us What You Owe Us.”
This visible protest underscores ongoing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) talks between the league and its athletes, focusing on demands for significantly higher salaries and a better share of league revenue. The
“Pay Us What You Owe Us”
message has since gained traction beyond the arena, fueling wider public attention around WNBA players‘ compensation.
Social Media Pushback Against WNBA Salary Increase
Despite this growing visibility, many critics on social media have argued that WNBA players do not merit pay raises, often citing the league’s profitability as a justification. These voices have stirred debate about whether the current pay scale reflects the players’ talent and contributions adequately. The criticism led to a forceful response from sports commentator Nick Wright, who addressed the controversy during the July 22 episode of his show, What’s Wright? with Nick Wright.
Nick Wright Defends Players Amid Criticism
Nick Wright rejected any arguments opposing higher wages for WNBA stars, especially pointing out the unjustified attacks occasioned by Caitlin Clark’s name being mentioned in discussions about the league‘s pay. He expressed his frustration toward detractors, labeling many as “utter losers” and those siding with management over player interests.
Wright emphasized that while no one expects equality in pay between NBA and WNBA athletes, paying players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers only around $70,000 annually is entirely inappropriate. He questioned whether any comparable talent in other business fields earns less than $80,000 per year, implying such compensation is far below what their skill justifies.
The Kelsey Plum thing, I think was totally misconstrued. But because Caitlin Clark’s name was involved, people took it and ran with it. That’s not the story. The story is how many people are such utter losers,
Nick Wright said.
It is just outrageous, the amount of people that were like ‘Pipe down, ladies! Be happy.’ So many losers are just boot-licking management sellouts,
Wright concluded.
Reflection on the Broader Pay Disparity Issue
Wright’s remarks highlight the tension over fair compensation in women’s professional basketball. His outspoken criticism of those opposing WNBA pay increases reflects the urgency felt by many advocates about the league‘s current financial structure. The visibility sparked by the All-Star Game protest and ongoing negotiations may put added pressure on league management to reconsider players‘ wages.
The debate around Caitlin Clark and other WNBA stars earning roughly $70,000 annually continues to generate strong opinions, especially given the rising popularity and skill level of women’s basketball. As talks persist, the league’s future decisions could significantly impact player satisfaction, league growth, and fans’ support for the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark and Swift were noticed together in a suite at Arrowhead Stadium during the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans on Saturday. This marks the first occasion they have attended a game together. Clark mentioned that Swift had invited her to be there earlier in the season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift was spotted sitting next to WNBA player Caitlin Clark during the Chiefs’ home game against the Houston Texans. Caitlin joined Swift after the Indiana Fever player shared that Swift had invited her to the game.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift gifted Caitlin Clark all the T-shirt and sweatshirt designs from her Eras Tour. At the 2024 Eras Tour concert in Indianapolis, WNBA player Caitlin Clark was surprised with four bags of merchandise arranged by Taylor.
Q. Is Caitlin Clark hanging out with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark expressed that she and Swift had a great time at the playoff game in Kansas City. She described it as the “perfect game” to watch with Swift. Clark added that it was adorable to see Swift’s enthusiasm for the Chiefs. She enjoyed sharing that experience with her and found it delightful.