The WNBA is experiencing a financial surge, and the top players are reaping the rewards! After years of a relatively modest salary cap, the league is now witnessing a financial revolution, with its stars commanding impressive contracts. While these figures may not yet rival the NBA's astronomical deals, they represent a significant victory for the athletes who have transformed the WNBA into a global powerhouse. Let's dive into the top 5 highest-paid players in the 2025-2026 season.
Kahleah Copper (Phoenix Mercury): Acquired by the Mercury in 2024, Copper signed a two-year extension worth $490,118. Earning a base salary of $248,134 in 2025, she enters 2026 as a UFA. Known for her explosive drives and tenacious defense, Copper's contract reflects her status as a top-tier, two-way player.
Jewell Loyd (Las Vegas Aces): Traded to the Aces in early 2025, Loyd remains one of the league's most formidable scorers. She signed a two-year extension with Storm in 2023 valued at $491,016, with a guaranteed base salary of $249,032 in 2025. She is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, which is expected to result in a substantial contract.
Arike Ogunbowale (Dallas Wings): Tied with Loyd, Ogunbowale is celebrated for her clutch shots. Her three-year supermax extension, valued at $725,000, is a testament to her skills. Earning $249,032 in 2025, she becomes a free agent in the upcoming season, and her track record is likely to attract a substantial salary increase in 2026.
Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever): In 2025, Mitchell signed a one-year deal with the Fever for $249,244, making her the highest-paid player in the WNBA at the time. When Caitlin Clark was sidelined due to an injury, Mitchell stepped up, showcasing her leadership alongside her exceptional shooting skills. As a free agent, she is expected to secure an even bigger contract before the new season begins.
Jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces): Young made history by becoming the first WNBA player to surpass the $250,000 annual threshold. Her two-year extension with the Aces, initially signed in 2022 and extended in May 2024, set a new benchmark for average annual value (AAV). With a total contract value of $504,900, Young's deal is the standard for player agents in the 2026 CBA negotiations.
But here's where it gets controversial... Do you think these salaries are a fair reflection of the players' value and the league's growing popularity? Are there any players you believe are undervalued or overpaid? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
