Former LSU women's basketball star Angel Reese has had a promising start to her professional career. The Chicago Sky selected Reese with the seventh overall pick in the 2024 draft. A woman of several business endeavors, Reese had no problem transitioning to the WNBA pay scale. Moreover, the star forward revealed eye-opening insight that might change some perspectives on league contracts.
Sky rookie sheds light on transition to WNBA pay
Angel Reese spoke positively about the WNBA salary while tying in the help her endorsement deals give her amid her transition from college to professional basketball.
“People thought me leaving college, I would take a huge pay gap. I wasn't getting paid in college, so that check that I do get [in the WNBA] is a bonus. I mean, being able to play for four to five months and get $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I'm doing, I think it's a plus for me,” Reese said in an interview with ESPN.
Reese wants to maximize her earnings, but her basketball endeavors go beyond a paycheck.
“I play the game I love not for the money. I play because I love basketball. And now that I'm a pro and being able to continue to work with these plans long-term, I think it's something that people don't really realize,” Reese added.
The rookie further explained that there are players signed with various brands and thinks it is awesome that companies allow them to embody their products. Reese added one more valuable insight on the outlook of WNBA pay.
“I want people to know that the deals don't just stop in college. When you go to the pros, they continue. And I feel l like they've grown even more. I wasn't able to do a lot of things in college because I was tied to certain things. Now that I'm a pro, I can do so much more,” Reese shared.
From Reese's perspective, playing in the WNBA can have a promising financial upside compared to college. Perhaps the Sky rookie's insight will encourage college players looking to jump to the next level.
Angel Reese looks to continue promising start with Sky
Reese continues to gain confidence with each WNBA game she plays. After a 12-point-eight-rebound debut against the Dallas Wings on May 16th, Reese helped lead the Sky to their first win of the season in a May 19th rematch. The rookie forward finished with 11 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and shot an improved 5-for-7 on free throws.
Reese revealed a key hint as to why she is the right for Chicago after her stout performance.
“Even though I'm young, I know I bring a lot of energy to this team. My energy is contagious, and I just try to boost everybody up as much as I can,” Reese said after the rematch victory over the Wings.
The former LSU star did not stop her momentum there. Reese and the Sky traveled to New York City to take on the undefeated Liberty on May 23rd. Chicago pulled off a thrilling victory for their second straight win, and Reese had another consistent showing. She amassed 13 points, and nine rebounds and shot 7-for-9 at the free throw stripe.
It will be interesting to see how the star rookie continues to fare amid her new start with Chicago.
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