The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has made major strides in salary growth, equity, and visibility in recent years. As of 2026, interest in the league is at an all-time high—and so are questions about how much professional female basketball players actually earn. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, sports analyst, or curious fan, understanding the average WNBA salary and the factors that affect earnings is key to seeing the bigger picture.
What Is the Average WNBA Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average WNBA salary is approximately $147,000 per year, with top players earning significantly more thanks to bonuses, endorsements, and prioritization contracts.
Minimum salary (rookies, 0–2 years experience): ~$72,000
Mid-level salary (3–5 years): ~$120,000–$150,000
Veteran salary (6+ years): ~$170,000–$230,000
Top stars (e.g., Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson): $250,000+ base, plus endorsements
This growth is a result of the 2020 collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which introduced higher base salaries, performance bonuses, and improved travel and maternity benefits.
Key Factors That Influence WNBA Salaries
Several elements determine how much a WNBA player makes in a given season:
Years of experience
Draft position and performance metrics
Team salary cap space
International play opportunities (off-season contracts abroad)
Marketing appeal and endorsement deals
Additionally, off-court opportunities such as media roles, public speaking, and coaching often supplement a player’s total annual income.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Rookie (0–2 years) | $72,000–$85,000 |
| Mid-Career (3–5 years) | $120,000–$150,000 |
| Veteran (6+ years) | $170,000–$230,000+ |
| Top Tier All-Stars | $250,000–$500,000 (with extras) |
Beyond the Base Salary: Other Earnings
Many WNBA players increase their income through:
Endorsement deals (Nike, Adidas, Gatorade, etc.)
International leagues (Russia, Turkey, China)
Broadcast and media appearances
Sponsorships and brand ambassador roles
Some players reportedly earn $500,000 to $1 million+ annually when all income sources are considered.
Benefits and Perks
The 2020 CBA introduced many benefits that continue in 2026:
Fully paid maternity leave
Better travel accommodations (charter flights for certain games)
Childcare stipends
Education stipends for continued learning
Revenue-sharing opportunities for top performers
Job Outlook and Market Trends in 2026
The WNBA is in the midst of strong upward momentum:
Expansion: New teams expected in major markets (e.g., Bay Area, Toronto)
TV deals: Lucrative media contracts driving up revenue
Fan growth: Attendance and viewership records broken in 2024
Sponsorship boom: Corporate interest in women’s sports is surging
These factors are expected to continue pushing salaries upward and increasing player visibility on a global stage.
Education and Certifications: Do They Matter?
While college basketball experience is essential (typically via the NCAA), additional education can be beneficial for post-playing careers:
Bachelor’s degree: Required to enter the WNBA (minimum 4 years post-high school)
Certifications: Useful for roles in coaching, training, or sports management
Graduate degrees: Helpful for athletes transitioning to executive or broadcasting careers
Comparison to Other Professions (Quick Glance)
Here’s how the WNBA salary compares to a few other roles in 2026:
Peloton Instructor Salary (2026): ~$130,000–$300,000
Sideline Reporter Salary: ~$70,000–$150,000
Senior Lead Navigator (Auxano): ~$110,000
Pen Tester (Cybersecurity): ~$103,000 (take-home ~$75,000)
Clearly, while WNBA salaries are improving, many athletes still supplement income through other ventures or international play to match high-paying tech or entertainment jobs.
Final Thoughts
The average WNBA salary in 2026 reflects a positive shift in compensation, opportunity, and respect for women’s professional basketball. With continued public support, media investment, and player development, the financial ceiling for WNBA athletes is rising fast.