Angel Reese boldly declares that if Caitlin Clark weren’t in the league, she would reign as the WNBA’s highest-paid star and top earner. Her words spark intrigue—confident, unapologetic, and leaving fans to wonder: Is she ready to claim the throne? (PO)

Chicago Sky star Angel Reese has never been one to shy away from speaking her mind, and her latest comments about WNBA earnings have sparked discussions about the league’s economic landscape. In a candid interview, Reese acknowledged the impact of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark on the WNBA’s financial growth while also asserting that, without Clark in the mix, she would be the league’s top money earner.

Reese’s Perspective on WNBA Marketability

Since entering the WNBA as the seventh overall pick in the 2024 draft, Reese has become one of the most marketable players in the league. Her dynamic presence on and off the court, combined with a strong fan following from her LSU days, has translated into lucrative endorsement deals. Companies like Reebok, Beats by Dre, and Raising Cane’s have all partnered with Reese, making her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball.

However, Reese believes her market value would be even higher if not for Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking influence. Clark, the No. 1 overall pick and former Iowa star, has set attendance and viewership records, drawing unprecedented levels of attention to the WNBA. Her jersey sales have skyrocketed, and her presence in the league has led to increased sponsorships, broadcasting deals, and overall revenue.

“If there was no Caitlin Clark, I would be the highest-paid WNBA money earner,” Reese stated. “I know my worth, and I know what I bring to the game. The league is making money off of us, and I’m making sure I get my piece.”

The Clark Effect: A Double-Edged Sword?

There’s no denying Clark’s impact on the WNBA. Her entry into the league has drawn millions of new viewers, and even veteran players have acknowledged her role in expanding the game’s financial potential. According to reports, WNBA ticket sales have surged in cities where Clark plays, and ESPN has seen record-breaking ratings for Indiana Fever games.

But while Reese recognizes Clark’s contributions, her comments shed light on the larger conversation about pay equity and branding in women’s sports. The WNBA, unlike the NBA, operates under a salary cap system that significantly limits player earnings. In 2024, the highest base salary for a WNBA player is around $250,000—pale in comparison to the multimillion-dollar contracts signed by NBA stars.

This has made endorsement deals essential for players like Reese and Clark, who leverage their personal brands to maximize their earnings. Both players are at the forefront of this movement, but Clark’s unprecedented popularity has positioned her as the face of the league, securing major deals that many believe should be more evenly distributed among the WNBA’s rising stars.

Rivalry or Mutual Growth?

Despite the comparisons and perceived rivalry, Reese and Clark’s coexistence in the league has proven beneficial for women’s basketball as a whole. Their on-court battles, dating back to their college days, have fueled the WNBA’s narrative and drawn more fans into the game.

While Reese acknowledges that Clark’s presence affects her financial standing, she also embraces the competition, using it as motivation to continue building her brand and influence.

“There’s room for all of us to win,” Reese said. “But I know what I bring, and I’m not going to let anyone downplay that.”

The Future of WNBA Salaries and Player Earnings

Reese’s comments highlight a growing debate about how WNBA players should be compensated. With the league experiencing a financial boom, thanks in part to Clark’s arrival and the ongoing contributions of stars like Reese, there is increasing pressure on the WNBA to reassess its salary structure.

The upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations could be a turning point, as players push for a larger share of the revenue they help generate. Whether or not Reese eventually becomes the highest-paid player in the league, her outspoken stance ensures that the conversation around WNBA salaries and financial equity remains at the forefront.

One thing is clear: Angel Reese knows her worth, and she’s determined to secure her rightful place among the WNBA’s highest earners—regardless of who else is in the league.