Caitlin Clark’s Salary Claims Debunked by Former WNBA Star—”That’s Absolutely False!”

Gabby Williams has taken a firm stance against WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s claims regarding player earnings, specifically the assertion that league athletes could earn as much as $700,000 annually. During a recent press conference, Williams asserted that many of her peers, including rising star Caitlin Clark, do not receive anywhere near the figures cited by Engelbert. This comment sheds light on the disparity between the commissioner’s statements and the actual financial reality faced by players in the league.

For context, the current highest-paid player in the WNBA is Jackie Young from the Las Vegas Aces, who earns an annual salary of $252,450. In stark contrast, rookies typically receive considerably less compensation. This financial structure influenced the decision of Williams’ teammate, Nika Muhl, to play in Turkey during the off-season, seeking better financial opportunities abroad.

While traveling to Turkey to join Fenerbahce, Williams took advantage of her flight time to engage with fans on TikTok, directly addressing misinformation circulating about Clark’s earnings. A supporter had inaccurately suggested that Clark earned close to $1 million during her rookie season. Williams promptly clarified this misconception, emphasizing that Clark’s actual salary in the WNBA is $70,000, a figure significantly less than what some believe.

Williams further underscored the importance of distinguishing between WNBA salaries and endorsement deals, stating, “I’m talking specifically about what WNBA salaries are and what is written in our collective bargaining agreement, which is public information.” She noted that the inflated figures often discussed in relation to player earnings do not reflect the realities of most athletes in the league. Williams passionately asserted that no player in the WNBA receives the compensation that the commissioner suggests.

In addressing the reasons many players, including herself, seek opportunities overseas, Williams pointed out the financial incentives that often outweigh what is offered in the WNBA. She expressed frustration with the league’s management, indicating that the WNBA’s failure to implement effective marketing agreements has contributed to the insufficient pay that drives players abroad. Williams argued that to retain top talent, the league must increase player compensation, stating, “If the WNBA wants us to be here, you have to pay us more.” She acknowledged the efforts of WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, who have created the offseason league ‘Unrivaled’ to provide better financial options for players who choose to stay in the United States.