Nelissa Smith is often regarded as a decent player in the WNBA, straddling the line between being a starter and a top-tier bench player. Her skill level suggests that she possesses the ability of a multiple-time All-Star, though her performance is somewhat inconsistent. On the court, she demonstrates the output of a good but not elite starter or a high-caliber bench player. Recently, she signed a deal to play in China, which has sparked discussion about her standing compared to other players like Parker and Cardoso.

Smith’s move to China highlights a significant trend: players in international leagues can earn considerably more than in the WNBA. For example, Liz Cambage, who hasn’t played in the WNBA for years, reportedly earns around $1 million for just a few months of play in China, illustrating the lucrative opportunities overseas. This situation underscores a broader issue in the WNBA, where salaries are limited by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and often fall short of what players could make abroad. The WNBA’s CBA restricts salaries to ensure financial balance among teams, resulting in lower pay for players compared to what they might earn in international leagues. High-profile players like A’ja Wilson could potentially earn significantly more if not constrained by the current salary cap and revenue-sharing structures of the WNBA.

This discrepancy is partly because many wealthy team owners in the WNBA could afford to pay players much more, akin to the high salaries seen in European football, but are restrained by the league’s financial regulations. As such, players like Smith can make substantial sums overseas, sometimes even surpassing their entire rookie contracts in just one season abroad. For instance, Smith could be earning close to a million dollars for her season in China, which is a stark contrast to her potential earnings in the WNBA.

This disparity between domestic and international pay highlights the financial dynamics at play and the significant role that overseas leagues play in supplementing player income. Moreover, it reflects the broader reality that the WNBA’s salary structure, while providing a stable income, falls short when compared to the financial opportunities available in international markets. As a result, players often seek opportunities abroad to maximize their earnings, even if it means stepping away from their WNBA teams.

This situation emphasizes the need for ongoing discussions about salary caps and financial structures in women’s professional basketball to ensure fair compensation for athletes at all levels. Ultimately, while the WNBA offers valuable exposure and competitive play, the financial allure of international leagues remains a powerful draw for many players seeking to capitalize on their athletic skills and earn higher salaries.