WNBA legend Diana Taurasi recently revealed the financial difficulties she faced during her career, disclosing that at one point she earned less than an arena janitor despite her status as one of the greatest basketball players. This statement has sparked a widespread discussion regarding pay fairness for women in professional sports as the WNBA considers changes to its compensation system.

NBA Players Voice Support for Taurasi’s Campaign

The impact of Taurasi’s revelations has extended beyond the WNBA, winning backing from leading NBA figures. LeBron James shared a poster of Taurasi that read “Only legends Change The Game,” showing his respect and support. NBA great Dwyane Wade, also a partial owner of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, reposted the image with the comment “Can’t wait. White Mamba.” Dallas Mavericks star Klay Thompson added his excitement by saying, “Can’t wait to tune in!”

These endorsements demonstrate a strengthening alliance between the NBA and WNBA, highlighting the need for equal respect and treatment of female athletes.

Urgent Need to Address Pay Disparities in Women’s Basketball

Taurasi’s remarks come as the WNBA is about to enter crucial collective bargaining agreement (CBA) talks. The league’s average player salary stands at roughly $116,000, starkly lower than the NBA players’ average of $7.5 million annually. This wage gap has intensified demands for adopting revenue-sharing arrangements similar to the NBA, where half of the league’s profits are distributed to players.

The

“Pay Us What You Owe Us”

campaign, highlighted by WNBA players wearing shirts with this message during All-Star Weekend, has further spotlighted the pressing issue of salary inequality in women’s professional basketball. Taurasi’s openness has amplified calls for meaningful reforms to ensure fair pay for the league’s stars.