Average Annual Earnings By Team

WNBA Player Salaries: Breaking Down the Earnings

Average Annual Earnings by Team

According to recent statistics, the average player salary in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) varies significantly depending on the team. The highest-paying team in 2023 is the Las Vegas Aces, with an average annual salary of $125,000. The Chicago Sky and Phoenix Mercury follow closely behind, with average salaries of $120,000 and $115,000 respectively. At the other end of the spectrum, the Indiana Fever and New York Liberty have the lowest average player salaries, at $65,000 and $70,000 respectively.

Top Salaries

The top-earning players in the WNBA are Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty and Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury. Stewart signed a four-year, $1.7 million contract with the Liberty, while Griner signed a three-year, $1.6 million contract with the Mercury. Other high-earning players include Candace Parker of the Chicago Sky ($1.5 million), Elena Delle Donne of the Washington Mystics ($1.3 million), and A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces ($1.2 million).

Cap Hits, Cash Earnings, and Bonuses

In addition to base salaries, WNBA players also receive cap hits, cash earnings, and bonuses. Cap hits refer to the amount of money that a player's salary counts against the team's salary cap. Cash earnings include all compensation paid to a player, including bonuses and advertising revenue. Bonuses are additional payments that players can earn based on performance, such as winning championships or making All-Star teams.

Negotiating Contracts

WNBA player contracts are typically negotiated between players and team management. The length of the contract and the player's salary are usually based on factors such as the player's experience, skill level, and market value. Players can also negotiate for additional benefits, such as signing bonuses, trade clauses, and retirement benefits.