Caitlin Clark Tops WNBA Salary Chart for 2025! Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson Missing From List Sparks Debate

Caitlin Clark has officially made headlines again, this time for reportedly becoming the highest-paid athlete in the WNBA for 2025. The announcement has sent shockwaves across sports media, igniting both admiration and controversy, particularly as other marquee names like Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson were conspicuously absent from the salary rankings.

Clark, known for her electrifying scoring ability, deep-range shooting, and growing status as a cultural icon in women’s basketball, has consistently been in the spotlight since her collegiate dominance. Her reported earnings this year reflect not just her on-court talent, but also her marketability, sponsorship deals, and influence in expanding the WNBA’s global profile.

Fans and analysts alike are celebrating her achievement, noting that it represents a milestone in women’s sports: a recognition of both talent and impact. “Caitlin Clark isn’t just a player; she’s a phenomenon,” one commentator noted. “Her ability to command attention, sell merchandise, and energize a fan base justifies this level of compensation.”

Yet the list has also sparked controversy and conversation within the basketball community. Angel Reese, the 2023 NCAA star who has rapidly become a household name with her dynamic play and charisma, did not appear on the reported salary rankings. A’ja Wilson, a WNBA MVP and perennial superstar, was also absent. Fans quickly took to social media to question the omissions. Was it contractual? Was it an oversight? Or does it reflect deeper issues around how compensation is determined in the league?

Sports economists and analysts weighed in, pointing out that WNBA salaries are influenced by multiple factors including team salary caps, individual contract negotiations, endorsement deals, and league policies. They noted that while on-court performance is critical, it’s not the sole determinant of income. “Salaries in women’s professional basketball are complicated,” one analyst explained. “Marketability, timing of contracts, and off-court deals play huge roles.”

The discussion has also ignited debates about equity and visibility in women’s sports. Some argue that top-tier athletes like Reese and Wilson deserve recognition not just for earnings, but for influence and leadership on and off the court. Others contend that Clark’s unique combination of performance and media presence makes her a natural figure to break the earnings barrier this year.

WNBA insiders suggest that the list could motivate other athletes and teams to rethink how contracts are structured, potentially opening the door for higher salaries, more endorsements, and greater financial empowerment for female athletes across the league. Meanwhile, fans continue to debate the rankings online, dissecting the nuances of contracts, bonuses, and sponsorship agreements.

For Clark, the announcement cements her status as one of the most prominent figures in women’s basketball today. Whether or not other stars eventually surpass her, this milestone highlights the growing economic impact of female athletes in professional sports—and the increasing recognition that their talent and market influence demand top-dollar compensation.

As the conversation evolves, one thing is clear: the WNBA is entering a new era, where stars like Caitlin Clark aren’t just athletes—they are cultural icons, financial powerhouses, and trailblazers in the ongoing fight for visibility and equity in sports.