Angel Reese Fires Back at Critics Amid WNBA Salary Controversy, Stands Firm on Potential Sit-Out Over $75K Contract

Angel Reese, one of the most electrifying college basketball stars in recent memory, has once again made headlines—not just for her dominance on the court but for her outspoken stance on the inequities in women’s basketball.

The 2023 NCAA champion and LSU superstar recently hinted at the possibility of sitting out the WNBA, citing dissatisfaction with the league’s notoriously low starting salaries.

The controversy erupted after reports surfaced that the rookie base salary for a WNBA player is approximately $75,000 per year—an amount that pales in comparison to what male athletes in the NBA and even some college players under NIL deals earn.

Reese, known for her confidence and unfiltered responses, did not hold back when addressing the criticism she has received for considering an alternative path rather than entering the WNBA immediately.

In a bold and defiant response to detractors, she declared, “As long as it takes,” signaling her willingness to stand firm on her beliefs about financial equity in women’s sports.

The statement ignited a wave of discussions across social media, sports talk shows, and among fans, with many debating the fairness of WNBA salaries and the growing power of college athletes leveraging their brands through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals.

WNBA Salary Debate: Why Angel Reese’s Comments Matter

The WNBA has long struggled with salary disparities when compared to major men’s sports leagues like the NBA.

A maximum rookie contract in the league is set at approximately $75,000, a stark contrast to the multi-million-dollar deals available in the NBA.

For top collegiate athletes like Reese—who have secured lucrative NIL deals and built massive social media followings—the financial trade-off of joining the WNBA is an increasingly difficult decision.

Many female athletes, including Reese, have found that their endorsement earnings in college far surpass what they would make as a professional in the WNBA.

According to reports, Reese, who has built an impressive brand on and off the court, has secured multiple high-profile sponsorships, making her one of the highest-paid female college athletes in the NIL era.

In contrast, even some of the top WNBA players struggle to earn salaries that match their value, often forcing them to play overseas in the offseason to supplement their income.

Reese’s willingness to challenge the status quo has drawn both support and backlash.

Critics argue that playing in the WNBA should be about love for the game rather than financial incentives, while supporters contend that women’s athletes deserve equitable compensation for their talent, dedication, and the revenue they help generate.

Angel Reese’s Response to Backlash: ‘As Long As It Takes’

Following her initial comments, Reese doubled down in response to criticism, making it clear that she will not be rushed into a decision that does not align with her worth.

The phrase “As long as it takes” has since become a rallying cry among her fans and fellow athletes advocating for better financial opportunities for women in sports.

Reese’s confidence and defiance in the face of backlash have solidified her reputation as not just a basketball star, but as a vocal leader in the fight for change.

Many in the sports world have compared her stance to that of other trailblazing athletes who have pushed for progress in their respective leagues.

“She’s doing what many before her were afraid to do—she’s standing up and making it clear that women’s sports need to evolve financially,” said one analyst on a popular sports talk show.

“It’s not just about one player. It’s about the future of the league.”

Her comments have sparked intense discussions on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, where fans have expressed both frustration and support.

Some argue that WNBA salaries should be higher given the skill level of its athletes, while others point to the league’s revenue limitations as a counterargument.

A Broader Movement for Women’s Sports Pay Equity

Angel Reese’s stance is part of a larger conversation about pay equity in women’s sports. In recent years, female athletes across various sports have pushed for increased pay, better sponsorship deals, and greater media coverage.

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, for example, famously fought—and won—a legal battle for equal pay after years of being paid significantly less than their male counterparts despite superior performance and higher viewership.

The WNBA, despite its growing popularity, still faces financial challenges, with many teams operating at losses and limited television deals affecting revenue.

However, with the rise of NIL deals and increased visibility for women’s sports, many believe that it is time for the league to reassess its salary structure.

Reese’s potential decision to delay her WNBA career in favor of maximizing her NIL earnings and waiting for a better financial landscape could set a precedent for future college stars.

If top talent continues to opt out of the WNBA due to low salaries, the league may be forced to address its pay structure sooner rather than later.

What’s Next for Angel Reese?

While Angel Reese has not officially declared her next move, her words suggest that she is carefully weighing her options.

Whether she chooses to enter the WNBA in the upcoming draft or continue building her brand through NIL opportunities, one thing is clear—she is making a statement that cannot be ignored.

Her willingness to challenge the financial limitations of women’s basketball adds another layer to her growing legacy, proving that she is not just a player but a leader advocating for change.

With her talent, influence, and determination, Reese’s decisions in the coming months will be closely watched by the sports world.

One thing is for certain—she will not be pressured into a decision that does not align with her worth.

And as she defiantly stated, she is willing to wait “as long as it takes.”