Chicago Sky star *Angel Reese* has reportedly informed WNBA officials that she will not return to the league unless the next **Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)** delivers player salaries comparable to those in the NBA. Sources indicate Reese views the current pay structure as severely undervaluing top stars like herself, amid the league’s surging popularity driven by record viewership, attendance, and media deals.
The WNBA’s current salaries pale in comparison to the NBA, where players share nearly 50% of league revenue. In contrast, WNBA athletes receive a much smaller portion, with rookie contracts like Reese’s four-year, $324,383 deal averaging around $81,000 annually. Her 2026 salary is projected at approximately $82,399, even as the league anticipates a massive revenue boost from new broadcast agreements starting that year.
Reese has been vocal about this disparity for months, emphasizing that players “deserve more” through revenue sharing and higher base pay. She has hinted at collective action, stating in discussions that if demands aren’t met, “we sitting out.” This stance aligns with broader union efforts, as the WNBPA opted out of the prior CBA and negotiations continue amid reports of players potentially striking in 2026.
Here are some dynamic shots of **Angel Reese** dominating on the court, showcasing the talent she brings to the WNBA:<
Beyond basketball, Reese has built a lucrative off-court empire through endorsements, fashion, and modeling—earning far more outside the league. She made history as the first professional athlete to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and has appeared in high-profile campaigns.
Check out these stunning modeling moments that highlight her supermodel presence:<grok:render card_id=”691472″ card_type=”image_card” type=”render_searched_image”>
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Reese’s comments, including her quip about making more as a top supermodel, underscore a key point: while the WNBA has grown dramatically thanks to stars like her, many players rely on external income to sustain their lifestyles. With negotiations ongoing and proposals floating around for average salaries exceeding $500,000 in 2026, Reese’s push could reshape the future of women’s professional basketball.
As the league’s biggest names advocate for fair compensation, the outcome of the next CBA will determine whether top talent stays committed—or seeks opportunities elsewhere. Reese’s influence extends far beyond the court, making her stand a pivotal moment for the WNBA’s evolution.
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