Angel Reese Sparks Debate After Revealing WNBA Salary ‘Can’t Cover My Lifestyle’ — Star Admits She Flies Private to Every Game

When Angel Reese entered the WNBA as the Chicago Sky’s newest star forward, she was already one of the most recognizable athletes in women’s basketball. But despite her massive popularity and influence, Reese’s rookie salary highlights a persistent issue in professional women’s sports: the WNBA’s pay scale remains far below what many top players need to support their lifestyles.

WNBA Salary: Not Enough for Angel Reese’s Lifestyle

Reese’s contract with the Chicago Sky is worth a maximum of $324,383 over four seasons, averaging about $81,096 per year. For her rookie campaign in 2024, she’s earning $73,749—a figure that’s dwarfed by her personal expenses. Speaking candidly on Instagram Live, Reese admitted, “The WNBA don’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think it pays one of my bills. Literally. I’m living beyond my means.”

Her living situation backs up this claim: Reese resides in a luxurious loft-style apartment in Chicago’s South Loop, complete with high-rise views, a gym, indoor pool, and even a basketball court. The rent alone is $8,000 per month, totaling $96,000 annually—already exceeding her WNBA salary for the year.

WNBA Salary: A Bonus, Not a Necessity

Despite the modest paycheck from the league, Reese sees her WNBA salary as a “bonus.” She explained, “Being able to play for what, four to five months, and get $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I’m doing, I think it’s a plus for me.” This attitude reflects the reality for many modern WNBA stars: while the league’s salary remains low, outside opportunities abound for those with the right brand and following.

Endorsements and Side Hustles: The Real Paycheck

Reese’s financial security comes from lucrative endorsement deals and side ventures, not her WNBA contract. Before she even entered the league, her Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation was an impressive $1.8 million, thanks to partnerships with Reebok, Topps, Airbnb, Tampax, Hershey’s Reese candy, and Beats by Dre.

She also played for the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, which offered six-figure salaries ranging from $100,000 to $250,000. Reese’s team, Rose Basketball Club, won the league’s inaugural championship, earning her an additional $50,000 bonus. With these deals, Reese is able to comfortably afford her upscale living and even private jet travel to games—something most WNBA players can only dream of.

No Need to Play Overseas

In previous eras, WNBA legends like Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird had to play overseas during the offseason to supplement their incomes. Reese, however, doesn’t face this pressure. With her endorsement portfolio and side projects, she’s financially secure without needing to play year-round. Although her WNBA salary won’t exceed $93,636 until at least the 2027 season, Reese’s off-court earnings ensure she can maintain her lifestyle and focus on her career.

The Bigger Picture: WNBA Salary Debate Continues

Angel Reese’s situation highlights a broader issue: while the WNBA has made strides in visibility and popularity, player salaries remain a point of contention. For most athletes, the league’s pay is still far below what’s needed to live comfortably, especially in major cities. However, stars like Reese have found ways to leverage their fame and brand for financial success, making the WNBA salary just a fraction of their income.

As the league continues to grow, the hope is that salaries will eventually reflect the talent and draw of its top players. Until then, Angel Reese and others will rely on their entrepreneurial spirit and marketability to thrive—proving that in the modern sports era, being a star means much more than just what happens on the court.