Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese recently shed light on her financial reality, revealing that her WNBA salary isn’t enough to cover her basic expenses, including her $8,000 rent. Reese, one of the most influential names in women’s basketball, shared her candid thoughts during an Instagram Live session, sparking conversations about WNBA salaries and the financial struggles athletes face.
During the livestream, Reese humorously acknowledged how hate from critics plays an unexpected role in funding her lifestyle. “Hating pays them bills, baby,” she said with a laugh. However, the conversation quickly took a serious turn as she discussed the limitations of her WNBA earnings.
“I just hope you know the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all,” Reese stated. She admitted that she doesn’t even know her exact WNBA salary, estimating it to be around $74,000. Reese emphasized that her WNBA income falls short of her monthly rent. “I don’t even think that pays one of my bills. Literally, I’m trying to think of my rent for where I stay at.”
Angel Reese and Her Multiple Incomes
Reese’s friend, who was off-camera, helped her confirm the disparity between her rent and salary. “I’m living above my means!” she exclaimed after realizing her $8,000 rent far exceeds her rookie contract. “That WNBA check don’t pay a thing. Did that even pay my car note?… I wouldn’t even be able to eat a sandwich with that.”
Fortunately, Reese has been able to supplement her WNBA income through lucrative endorsement deals and side projects. From major partnerships with Reebok, PlayStation, and McDonald’s, to her recently launched podcast, Unapologetically Angel, her off-the-court ventures help her maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Reese’s openness about her finances highlights the ongoing issue of low WNBA salaries, which many athletes must balance with outside income. Despite this, her influence continues to grow, having recently been named one of Sports Illustrated’s 50 Most Influential Athletes of 2024.