Featured Image Credit: Ethan Miller / Staff via Getty
Topics: Basketball, WNBA
James Taylor
Angel Reese has dropped her response after the WNBA chief's 'should be grateful' over pay comment.
The debate over salaries in women's basketball has reignited following comments made by Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier. After her side's semi-final defeat to the Phoenix Mercury, Collier used her post-game interview to criticise commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Collier explained: “I also asked how she planned to fix the fact that players like Caitlin, Angel and Paige, who are clearly driving massive revenue for the league, are making so little for their first four years. Her response was, ‘Caitlin should be grateful she makes $60 million off the court because without the platform the WNBA gives her, she wouldn't make anything'.”
The remarks sparked a reaction across the league and one of the first to respond was Chicago Sky's Angel Reese.
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The 23-year-old has spoken in the past about her lack of pay. Last year, she claimed that her $73,000 salary did not cover her rent that amounted to $96,000 per year.
Reese explained that it was only through endorsement deals and her involvement with the Unrivaled three versus three league that was she was able to make a six figure income.
Given her previous stance on the subject, it was no surprise that she backed Collier.
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On X she wrote: "10/10. No notes!"
The WNBA has grown rapidly in recent years, with players such as Collier, Reese and Caitlin Clark helping to drive record attendances and TV audiences.
The league recently announced another broadcast partner, after they confirmed Versant had signed an 11-year deal.
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Despite the league's continuing commercial growth a new collective bargaining agreement has yet to be agreed with the players' union.
The current arrangement is due to expire at the end of October, meaning both sides are under pressure to reach a breakthrough.
Collier, who serves as vice president of the WNBA, has become one of the most outspoken voices in the game.
Engelbert responded with a statement published by USA Today.
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She said: "I have the utmost respect for Napheesa Collier and for all the players in the WNBA.
"Together we have all worked tirelessly to transform this league.
"My focus remains on ensuring a bright future for the players and the WNBA, including collaborating on how we continue to elevate the game.
"I am disheartened by how Napheesa characterized our conversations and league leadership, but even when our perspectives differ, my commitment to the players and to this work will not waver."