Angel Reese basked in the glow of victory Monday night, securing the inaugural championship of the Unrivaled league with her team, Rose BC. The triumph was sweetened by a substantial $50,000 bonus, a welcome addition to her coffers. Reese, known for her dominant presence on the court and her infectious enthusiasm, previously led LSU to a college national championship in 2023. Her teammates on Rose BC included notable WNBA players Chelsea Gray, Lexie Hull, Kahleah Cooper, Azura Stevens, and Brittney Sykes, all of whom shared in the celebratory bonus.
Reese’s immediate reaction to the win was captured in a succinct yet expressive post on X, where she exclaimed, "50K NEED DATTTTT." The post served as a public acknowledgment of her excitement and the significance of the financial reward.
Sydney Colson, a seasoned WNBA player recently signed to a one-year deal with Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever, playfully responded to Reese’s tweet with a humorous proposition. "Hey angel girl, just wanted to check in and see how ur doing and just let u know I’m here for u if u need anything…esp if u need to get rid of 50k by tomorrow or anything like that…" Colson’s comment was clearly tongue-in-cheek, a lighthearted jab at Reese’s newfound wealth.
However, Reese’s reply revealed a more serious undertone to her initial exuberance. She politely declined Colson’s offer, stating, "hey sista. i’m doing well. just won 50k on a flight. I know you are VERY aware & i’m sorry to break it to you but i’m on a rookie contract & that 50k was a little more than half of my contract so I have to keep that to myself…. sorry 🙁 give me a few years and i gotchu. be well."
Reese’s response highlighted the significant disparity between her high-profile status and the relatively modest salary she earns as a WNBA rookie. The $50,000 bonus, while substantial, represented a significant portion of her overall earnings, underscoring the financial realities faced by many players in the league. Her promise to "gotchu" in a few years implied a future where she hopes to be in a better financial position to share her success.
The exchange between Reese and Colson sparked a broader conversation about WNBA player salaries and the financial challenges faced by athletes in the league. Reese herself has been vocal about the issue, previously expressing her frustration with the current compensation structure. She revealed that her rookie salary was just under $75,000 and that she anticipates earning even less in the upcoming year.
Reese’s previous statements shed further light on her financial situation. "I’m living beyond my means. Hating pays them bills, baby. I just hope you know the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all," she said in October. She elaborated, "I don’t even think that pays one of my bills. Literally, I’m trying to think of my rent for where I stay at. Let me do the math real quick. I don’t even know my (WNBA) salary, $74,000?"
Her candid remarks emphasized the financial struggles that many WNBA players face, despite their talent and dedication to the sport. The cost of living, combined with relatively low salaries, often forces players to seek additional income streams or live frugally.
Reese’s willingness to speak out about WNBA salaries has positioned her as an advocate for improved player compensation. Earlier this month, she asserted her commitment to "stay at the negotiating table for as long as it takes" to secure better financial opportunities for players in the league. Her determination reflects a growing movement among WNBA players to address the pay gap and advocate for greater financial equity.
Reese’s success in the Unrivaled league, culminating in the championship victory and bonus, serves as a reminder of her exceptional talent and dedication to the game. In addition to her on-court achievements, Reese was also named the Defensive Player of the Year in the inaugural season, further solidifying her reputation as a dominant force in the league.
The Unrivaled league championship marks a significant milestone in Reese’s career, providing both financial reward and further validation of her athletic abilities. However, her experiences and outspokenness on the issue of WNBA salaries have also highlighted the broader financial challenges faced by players in the league. As she continues to excel on the court and advocate for improved compensation, Angel Reese is poised to become a leading voice for change in the world of women’s professional basketball. Her journey is not only about personal success but also about paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for WNBA players.
