Angel Reese has never been one to hold back when it comes to speaking her mind. The WNBA star is known for her confidence both on and off the court, and she’s proving that again with her latest comments regarding the league’s ongoing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations.
Earlier this week, Reese made waves on her podcast when she delivered a bold message that if the WNBA doesn’t increase player salaries, she’s prepared to sit out.
Reese‘s willingness to speak up highlights a long-running debate about player compensation in the WNBA.
There’s no denying that the WNBA has seen a surge in interest over the past year. Television ratings have improved, media coverage has expanded, and more people are engaging with women’s basketball than ever before.
Can Reese force a change?
Caitlin Clark, the standout star who has become a sensation in women’s basketball, is widely credited for bringing fresh eyes to the sport. Clark’s presence on the court last season transformed the league’s viewership numbers, attracting casual fans and drawing significant media coverage.
Meanwhile, Outkick believes that Reese can’t manage to get this done by herself.
“Let’s start here … nobody really watches the WNBA. I’m just being honest. I know ratings were up last year, but that wasn’t because of Angel Reese. You know it. I know it. The WNBA knows it. Angel probably knows it,” a recent article reads.
“She’s a good player, and a polarizing one, but she’s not Caitlin Clark. Don’t call me racist. Save your breath, please.
“I know some of y’all who stumbled on this blog who usually read CNN will want to shout racism, but don’t. Bite those tongues!
“It’s just true. Those are the facts. Caitlin Clark transformed the league, relatively speaking, last year. She brought casual basketball fans over. She brought over the middle-aged white dad from Iowa who still watches 100 MLB games a year. The numbers say that. The data backs it up.
“So, I’m not sure Angel Reese threatening to sit out is gonna move the needle when it comes to negotiations. Are YOU going to stop watching the WNBA if Angel Reese sits it out? Come on. Of course not.”
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