Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese has a message for fans still upset over her reported WNBA salary.
Reese, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, is expected to make $73,439 in her first year with the Sky, according to Spotrac. She signed a four-year deal worth $324,383 after being drafted by Chicago in April.
Earlier this week, Reese appeared on ESPN and addressed any remaining concerns about the compensation she’s set to receive this season. She referred to her salary as a ‘bonus,’ saying she doesn’t play for the money.
“Obviously, people thought me leaving college I would take a huge pay gap and pay drop,” Reese began. “I wasn’t getting paid in college, so that check that I do get here is a bonus. Being able to play for, what, four or five months and get $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I’m doing.
“I think it’s a plus for me. I’m playing a game I love – not for the money. I play because I love basketball.”
In her three appearances for the Sky this season, Reese is averaging 12.0 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. She’s also recorded a steal in each of her first three professional starts.
Reese and the Sky will return to action on Saturday against the 4-0 Connecticut Sun.
Tipoff is set for 8:00 p.m. ET.
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) reacts on the bench during the second half against the Dallas Wings at College Park Center.
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports