Caitlin Clark’s Earnings Highlight WNBA’s Pay Disparity
Indiana Fever’s rising star Caitlin Clark earned an estimated $11.1 million in 2024, making her one of the highest-paid female athletes in the world. However, only a fraction of that income came from her WNBA salary and bonuses. Despite being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft and quickly emerging as the face of the league, Clark’s earnings from the league itself amounted to just around $100,000.
Even if the Fever had offered her the highest possible salary under the current WNBA collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the most she could have earned is $208,219. For context, the NBA’s minimum salary for the 2024-25 season stands at $1,157,153—highlighting the stark contrast in pay between the two leagues.
Clark’s Agent Calls Out WNBA’s Salary Structure
Clark’s agent, Erin Kane, made it clear in a recent interview with ESPN that Clark is significantly underpaid relative to her value to the league.
“Will Caitlin Clark ever be paid by the WNBA what she’s really worth to that league? I don’t think that’s possible,” Kane stated.
But Clark isn’t the only player impacted by the WNBA’s salary structure. Kane, who also represents other top WNBA stars—including 2023 WNBA MVP runner-up Napheesa Collier and Dallas Wings standout Arike Ogunbowale—believes the league’s salary cap is limiting all of its players.
“She’s part of a larger player body. They all need to be paid more,” Kane explained. “She should be recognized for what she has done and what she’s brought to the league from an economic standpoint. It’s as simple as that.”
The issue of WNBA player salaries has been a long-standing debate, with many arguing that the league needs to increase compensation for its athletes. Kane is optimistic that upcoming CBA negotiations will result in significant improvements.
“The most important thing always has been getting WNBA players paid for what they do on the court. I’m very, very hopeful for this CBA negotiation that it will be progressive and move the line forward a lot,” she added.
Endorsements Bridge the Pay Gap—but Not the Principle
While Clark’s on-court earnings remain limited, her marketability has allowed her to secure lucrative endorsement deals. In 2024 alone, she generated nearly $11 million in sponsorship agreements, a figure that is expected to rise as her career progresses.
Despite this financial success, the disparity between her economic impact on the WNBA and what she is actually paid through her contract remains a glaring issue.
The WNBA and its players association are currently negotiating a new CBA, and it is widely expected that player salaries will see a significant increase. However, unless the league eliminates or drastically raises the maximum contract limit, Clark—and other stars—will likely never be compensated at a level that reflects their full value to the league.
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