Caitlin Clark, WNBA Stars Call for Better Pay Amid Contract Negotiations

Last Updated:July 20, 2025, 19:02 IST

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark urged for better WNBA pay during contract talks. Despite her injury, Clark's popularity shone at the sold-out All-Star Game.

(Credit: AP)

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark made a strong call for better compensation in the WNBA on Saturday, as contract negotiations between the league and players ramped up. Meanwhile, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed optimism about the direction of recent talks.

The All-Star Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis drew a sold-out crowd, with thousands of fans wearing “Clark" jerseys despite the Rookie of the Year being sidelined due to a groin injury sustained earlier in the week.

Though unable to play, Clark remained a central figure throughout All-Star weekend. Her image appeared prominently in advertisements for Nike, Wilson, and Gatorade across downtown Indianapolis, underscoring her massive popularity and marketability.

When asked how her endorsement deals compare to her WNBA salary, Clark gave a candid response: “That’s a good question."

She elaborated, “That’s where we’re really fortunate—having those other deals. I think that’s one of the main things we’re in the room fighting for."

“We Should Be Paid More"

Clark emphasized that compensation is a top priority in ongoing labor discussions. “We should be paid more. Hopefully that’s the case moving forward as the league continues to grow," she said. “I think it’s probably the most important thing we are in the room advocating about."

Players used the high-profile event to amplify their message. During warm-ups, athletes wore T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan “Pay Us What You Owe Us." Following the final buzzer, fans inside the arena chanted “Pay them!" in a powerful show of support.

“That kind of backing from the fans—it means everything," said Napheesa Collier, who led her team to a 151–131 win over Team Clark and set a new WNBA All-Star Game record with 36 points.

Collective Bargaining Talks Underway

On Thursday, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) and league officials met in Indianapolis to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. The players had previously voted to opt out of their current contract at the end of the season.

Following the meeting, the union reported that the two sides remain far apart on several key issues.

Engelbert, who also oversaw the last collective bargaining agreement in 2020, has led the WNBA during a period of significant growth, with surging TV ratings and rising attendance.

“We want the same things as the players," she added. “We want to significantly increase their salary and benefits, while balancing with our owners their ability to have a path to profitability."

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

Read More

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