Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese brought the WNBA viewers and business deals never seen before. Although the rookies will see little benefit for all they’ve contributed, there’s one person who isn’t willing to tolerate injustice – none other than Shaquille O’Neal.
With the WNBA regular season in the rearview mirror, few doubt the impact the Clark-Reese rivalry has had on the league. Viewership has soared, and new sponsors are willing to risk their money on the league.
Still, Clark’s rookie contract will pay her just $338,056 over four years, while Reese will receive $324,000 over the same span. The W’s biggest stars aren’t doing any better. A’ja Wilson’s contract is for $400,000 over two years, and Jackie Young’s, the highest-paid player in the league, is for $504,000 over two seasons.
These figures pale compared to the $55 million over four years that Victor Wenbanyama will earn for his rookie contract with the San Antonio Spurs or the $205 million that the Minnesota Timberwolves will pay Rudy Gobert over five years. Shaq isn’t willing to tolerate this any longer.
O’Neal’s relentless campaign
It’s well known that the former Los Angeles Lakers star has a great appreciation for Angel Reese. Recently, he also recognized Caitlin Clark’s talent and charisma.
In an interview with Forbes, O’Neal highlighted how these two players have attracted attention to the WNBA but said that’s not enough. “I’m glad there’s a new (focus) on the WNBA. But the conversation is not over. We need to start getting them similar pay,” said the “Big Aristotle.”
“I said this before and I took a lot of flak for it, but I mean it. For a guy like Rudy Gobert to make $200 million and not be that good, while Caitlin Clark to make $100,000 [per season], there’s something wrong with that picture,” Shaq insisted.
But it’s not all complaints on Shaq’s part. The four-time NBA champion also has a plan to change the situation, and it all starts with the fans.
Shaq wants to involve all the fans
“We need to start having women get similar pay or equal pay. Fans should keep supporting them, continue buying merchandise, continue helping them get TV deals,” said O’Neal, aware of the challenges faced by the players and the WNBA as a league.
If the “Big Man” has his way, players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese could be the W’s first millionaires. “I am looking forward to the day when a woman professional athlete makes $50 or $60 million like she deserves, for being a good player,” he noted.
Media, fans, and Shaq himself are aware that, at the moment, the league does not generate enough revenue to support such salaries. However, if the popularity of the WNBA continues to grow, fueled by talents like Reese and Clark, that day may not be too far away.
