The WNBA is nearing a critical point in its labor talks as the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the WNBA Players Association and the league approaches expiration this October. Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese has been outspoken about the inadequate salaries for players, warning of a potential strike or lockout if the league fails to meet demands for improved pay and increased revenue sharing. Reese’s candid remarks underscore the mounting tension surrounding compensation in the league, fueling ongoing concerns among players about their financial security.
Angel Reese’s Viral $1400 Weekly Pay Meme Fuels Debate
A meme jokingly attributing a quote to Angel Reese—
“Y’all make $1400 a week, I make $1400 in 7 days”
—has gone viral, stirring both amusement and reflection. While the quote is fabricated, it has some basis in truth: Reese’s 2025 base salary under her current four-year deal is approximately $74,909, which equates to about $1,440 per week annually. This ironic comparison struck a chord for many fans, who laughed at the sharp sarcasm amid serious discussions about WNBA pay disparities and player earnings.
Fan Reactions to the Meme Highlight Mixed Perceptions
Angel Reese’s prominence in the WNBA has brought her both admiration and criticism, with the viral meme adding to the ongoing discourse around her persona and pay. Some fans took the joke literally, prompting surprised reactions like,
“So you’re telling me I make the same thing as Angel Reese?”
Other responses poked fun at perceived academic rumors about Reese, a claim the player has refuted by clarifying her academic record and graduation from LSU. Despite the humor and skepticism, the meme amplifies the reality of Reese’s pay situation relative to average American incomes.
The Reality of WNBA Salaries for Top Players
Angel Reese’s reported salary is striking for its closeness to the typical U.S. per capita personal income, which is projected at $74,545 for 2025. Other league stars, such as Caitlin Clark, who has been instrumental in driving record viewership and merchandise sales, earn similarly modest sums, with Clark’s 2025 rookie contract salary estimated at $78,066. These figures contrast markedly with the influence and visibility these athletes have within the sport and beyond.
Why the Pay Gap Sparks Frustration Among Fans and Players
Both Reese and Clark represent the highest echelons of talent in the WNBA, yet their compensation continues to lag behind their market value. The league’s current salary structure undercompensates even its most impactful players, illustrating a significant disconnect between revenue generated and player earnings. With the CBA negotiations at a pivotal juncture, the broader player group is increasingly vocal about the need for equitable pay that reflects their contributions and helps stabilize professional women’s basketball.
Angel Reese’s Outspokenness on Player Pay and Potential Labor Action
Angel Reese’s direct approach to the pay issue, including her warning of a lockout if demands are unmet, signals a readiness among players to take collective action. On her podcast, Reese stated,
If y’all don’t give us what we want, we sitting out,
—Angel Reese, Chicago Sky forward. Reports indicate that players are preparing for a possible lockout ahead of the 2026 season, highlighting the seriousness of the contract negotiations and the urgency felt by athletes to improve their financial conditions.
Reese’s Career and Public Image Amid Pay Controversies
Despite facing skepticism in some circles, Angel Reese has made a significant impact as one of the league’s brightest stars. She has encountered criticism and mockery, yet continues to command attention through her on-court performances and endorsement deals. Reese has also addressed false rumors about her academic standing, clarifying on her podcast that she never had low grades and that she graduated from LSU. Even as debate swirls around her, Reese remains a central figure in conversations about the WNBA’s future and player remuneration.
Impact on the WNBA and Future Outlook
The pay controversy surrounding Angel Reese and other stars like Caitlin Clark shines a spotlight on the larger financial challenges faced by the WNBA. As the league vies to retain its top talent and grow its brand, the outcome of the ongoing CBA negotiations will be critical. A failure to increase pay and revenue shares could lead to lockouts or strikes, potentially disrupting the upcoming season. Conversely, addressing these concerns could strengthen player loyalty and support the league’s long-term viability.
This moment represents a defining crossroads for professional women’s basketball, where the voices of players like Reese could lead to meaningful changes in how the league compensates its athletes. Fans, players, and stakeholders alike await the final decisions, recognizing that fair pay is a cornerstone for the sport’s growth and respect.