It’s well known that WNBA players earn significantly less than their NBA counterparts. But with ongoing talks surrounding a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), players are hopeful that change is on the horizon. During Saturday night’s All-Star Game, they made a bold statement by wearing shirts that read, “Pay Us What You Owe Us” in a unified pregame display.
However, former NBA champion and current broadcaster Stacey King believes that internal friction, especially what appeared to be a subtle jab from Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum toward Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark could undermine the league’s push for better treatment.
A strong message, undercut by division
Some of the criticism directed at Clark has puzzled fans and commentators alike. As one of the main forces bringing new visibility and financial opportunities to the WNBA, Clark’s impact is undeniable. Yet resentment from a few players seems to linger. Plum, a four-time All-Star and former champion with the Las Vegas Aces, commented after the game that Clark was absent when players met to coordinate their pregame protest.
“Not to tattletale: zero members of Team Clark were very present for that,” Plum said. “But we were all on the same page for the game. We wanted to do something unified and impactful. Sometimes silence is powerful.” Her remarks caught fellow All-Star Sabrina Ionescu off guard, visibly reacting beside her.
Stacey King, who supports the WNBA’s fight for better pay, criticized the moment. “You’re fighting for better salaries and trying to present a united front yet you still find time to throw shade at Caitlin Clark? Why???” King wrote on X. “Sabrina’s reaction says a lot. Some players are being petty, and it’s hurting the league.”
Push for progress continues
The WNBA and its Players’ Association have started negotiations on a new CBA, though sources say progress remains slow. Still, both sides aim to reach an agreement by October.
Clark, reflecting on her first experience in such a meeting, emphasized the sense of unity: “The best part for me was being in a room with over 40 other players. Many more would have joined if they could. We deserve to be paid more, and I hope that becomes a reality as the league continues to grow.”
While players have demonstrated solidarity in their demands, internal disputes could distract from their collective goals. Passionate competition is part of the game, but when advocating for league-wide advancement, maintaining mutual respect remains essential.
Be the first to comment