Caitlin Clark was selected as the number one pick in the WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever, sparking backlash on social media over the pay gap between her and the NBA’s top pick.
In her rookie year, Clark will earn a base salary of approximately $76,535, significantly lower than Victor Wembanyama’s $12.2 million salary in his first year.
Former NBA player Matt Barnes urged people to show meaningful support for women’s basketball, rather than just expressing outrage on social media about a complex issue.
On All the Smoke, Barnes remarked, “Instead of just being outraged, you need to show support. Attend games, watch on TV, buy merchandise. Treat women’s basketball the same way you do men’s basketball. That’s how the WNBA will grow.”
He also questioned whether the enthusiasm and following of women’s college basketball will transfer to the WNBA, emphasizing the importance of fans supporting the talented female athletes.
Barnes highlighted the improvements in WNBA salaries since the 2020 collective bargaining agreement, which saw max salaries doubled, increased total cash compensation, and added benefits like health care and maternity leave.
Although it’s challenging to compare NBA and WNBA salaries due to revenue differences, both leagues have revenue sharing agreements with distinct structures.
With emerging stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who drew record viewership in college, the future of women’s basketball looks promising for growth.
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