A detailed look at the earnings of top draft picks and the impact of endorsements on their income.

The WNBA's pay disparity: Rookies earning less than you think

As the WNBA continues to thrive, spotlighting top-tier female athletes and their remarkable talents, discussions surrounding their compensation remain crucial. For rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, navigating the financial landscape of professional basketball poses challenges.

In the 2024 WNBA draft, these rookies embark on their professional journeys with starting salaries significantly lower than their NBA counterparts. The WNBA operates on a rookie wage scale, with specific salaries assigned based on draft positions. The top four picks are guaranteed a base salary of $76,535 in their first year, followed by incremental increases over the next two years. Picks 5 through 8 earn $73,439, while selections 9 through 12 receive $70,344. Second-round picks start at $67,249.

This stands in stark contrast to the NBA, where top picks can earn millions in their debut season.

The disparity underscores ongoing efforts for increased pay and recognition in women’s basketball. While veterans like Arike Ogunbowale and Jewell Loyd surpass rookie-scale contracts, commanding annual earnings of $241,984, the average WNBA salary in 2023 was $147,745—still notably lower than the NBA average.

Unpacking the financial reality for new players in the women’s league-does it measure up?

Many WNBA players, including rookies, rely heavily on endorsements and off-court ventures for substantial income. This trend is exemplified by Caitlin Clark, a standout player from Iowa.

Despite starting with a modest rookie salary, Clark earned approximately $3.4 million from name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals this past season. She partnered with major brands such as Nike and Gatorade.

The upcoming WNBA draft will introduce new talent to the league, featuring prospective stars from the record-breaking women’s college basketball season. However, it also highlights the financial challenges these athletes face as they transition from collegiate success to the professional stage.

As the WNBA gains popularity, marked by record-breaking viewership and growing public support, discussions about fair compensation become increasingly relevant. With players like Clark positioned to elevate the league’s profile further, there is hope that these conversations will lead to a more equitable future in professional women’s sports.