At the center of ongoing WNBA collective bargaining agreement discussions, Angel Reese and other league stars have made bold statements pushing for greater financial recognition. During this year’s All-Star Game, Reese wore a
“Pay Us What You Owe Us”
shirt, symbolizing the players’ demand for a fairer share of revenues.
Reese spoke candidly last week about the awakening these talks have brought her, emphasizing the importance of fighting not only for herself but for future generations of athletes. Her focus on the negotiations is clear: the players are united in seeking what they rightfully deserve.
Angel Reese Emphasizes Importance of Understanding and Advocacy
Reese shared how recent league meetings deepened her awareness of disparities in player compensation.
“It’s bigger than me… we are all here to fight for the same thing, and what we deserve. We’re not gonna stop until we get exactly what we want. And yesterday’s meeting really woke me up to the eyes of, we aren’t getting what we deserve,”
she explained.
“And knowing that for a long time… the numbers they were giving us, I’m like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know all this stuff.’”
She also stressed the value of being informed as a key part of effective advocacy within the negotiations.
“Now being able to be informed, knowing that I can be more vocal, because I do know more. So I’m really happy to be a part of that meeting yesterday,”
Reese noted.
“Because it woke me up to a lot of things that I didn’t know was going on.”
Team Revenue: The Non-Negotiable Priority for Reese
When asked about the one non-negotiable issue in the current WNBA CBA talks, Reese was unequivocal in her answer: team revenue.
“The revenue shares, that’s really important for us. We deserve it,”
the Chicago Sky forward said during an interview with ESPN’s Elle Duncan.
“I know we’re gonna do whatever it takes to get what we deserve. I’m just gonna continue to educate myself on what’s going on, and staying involved. I know my voice, I know my platform, and I know when I speak, people are listening.”
Reese clarified that this fight extends beyond just personal financial gain.
“Not that I need the money, but it’s for everybody else,”
she explained.
“It’s the people that are coming behind me, it’s the people that have already played before me. So that’s why I’m gonna continue to speak.”
Angel Reese’s Persistent Advocacy Shapes the Future of WNBA Negotiations
Known for her openness and willingness to speak out, Reese’s involvement in the WNBA CBA negotiations highlights her commitment to long-term progress for players. As discussions unfold and more details emerge, her platform and growing knowledge of the league’s financial landscape will continue to influence the dialogue.
The emphasis on team revenue underscores a critical issue in the ongoing talks and signals the steadfast demands of the players for equitable compensation. Reese’s stance reflects a collective push that will likely intensify as negotiations move forward, aiming to secure lasting benefits for current players and those who follow.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Reese explained in a video on her TikTok that she hurt her hand when she fell after scoring a point. She said the injury resulted in a small crack in her bone. According to her doctors, Reese could choose between getting surgery or not.
Q. Why did McDonald’s partner with Angel Reese?
A. This collaboration is a tribute to excellence. It’s McDonald’s first nationwide meal partnership with a female sports star, highlighting future standout athletes.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Basketball is a family tradition, as Angel’s parents played the sport in college. Her mom even went on to play professionally in Luxembourg. “She’s always been independent and passed that on to me,” Angel shared with Just Women’s Sports in January 2023.
Q. How much money did Angel Reese get from McDonald’s?
A. McDonald’s is giving Angel Reese $16 million. She earns around $75,000 a year with the WNBA, so this deal is worth 213 times her annual salary.