Angel Reese Threatens Retirement Over Low WNBA Pay: Caitlin Clark Responds Amid Growing League Tensions
In a surprising and bold statement shaking the WNBA community, Chicago Sky rookie sensation Angel Reese has threatened to retire early from professional basketball if the league doesn’t significantly improve player salaries. The former LSU standout, known as the “Bayou Barbie,” made the comments during a recent interview, igniting a heated conversation about gender pay disparities in professional sports.
Reese expressed frustration over the limited financial opportunities in the WNBA compared to the NBA, highlighting how many players are forced to play overseas during the offseason just to make ends meet. “We put our bodies on the line. We grow the game, bring in fans, but we’re still underpaid. It’s disheartening,” Reese stated. “If things don’t change soon, I might have to walk away.”
Her comments have sparked widespread reactions across social media and from fellow players. Rising WNBA star Caitlin Clark, now with the Indiana Fever, addressed Reese’s statement in a press conference, expressing support while emphasizing unity. “I respect Angel’s passion and drive. She’s right — we deserve better. But we also have to keep pushing together and growing the game as a team,” Clark said.
This developing story comes at a time when the WNBA is seeing unprecedented viewership, merchandise sales, and media coverage — largely driven by the popularity of rookie players like Reese and Clark. Despite the growth, base salaries for many players remain shockingly low, with top rookies earning just around $76,000 a year.
Fans, analysts, and former players are urging the WNBA and its partners to prioritize player compensation before losing major talent like Reese. With public pressure mounting, all eyes are now on league officials to see if meaningful change is on the horizon — or if one of its brightest stars will truly walk away.