In the rapidly evolving landscape of women’s professional sports, few leagues are experiencing the kind of financial growth seen in the WNBA today. And here’s where it gets truly intriguing—the league’s top players are now securing contracts that reflect their rising star power, sparking conversations about recognition, value, and fairness. But what do these huge deals really mean for the future of women’s basketball? Let’s explore the five most lucrative active contracts in the WNBA as of the 2025–2026 season, shedding light on how the league’s economic landscape is shifting.
Starting with number five, we have Kahleah Copper of the Phoenix Mercury. Copper’s journey from the Chicago Sky to the Mercury in 2024 was marked by a two-year extension worth approximately $490,118. In 2025, her base salary was $248,134, and as she approaches 2026, she’s set to hit free agency. Known for her explosive drives and tenacious defense—earning her the Finals MVP title in 2021—Copper’s contract underscores her status as a dynamic two-way player capable of influencing both ends of the court.
Moving up to number four, Jewell Loyd’s move to the Las Vegas Aces early in the 2025 season came via a high-profile three-team trade. Despite the jersey change, Loyd continues to be one of the league’s most formidable scorers. Her previous two-year extension with the Seattle Storm in 2023, valued at nearly $491,016, guaranteed her a base salary of $249,032 in 2025. As she heads into 2026 as an unrestricted free agent, her next contract is expected to carry a hefty cap hit, reflecting her elite scoring ability.
At number three stands Arike Ogunbowale of the Dallas Wings. Widely regarded as the clutch queen of the league, Ogunbowale signed a substantial three-year supermax deal worth $725,000, affirming her immense value to her team. In 2025, she earned $249,032, and her impressive scoring resume makes her a highly sought-after free agent as the upcoming season begins. With her ability to perform under pressure, her next contract is expected to climb even higher, especially if the league’s salary cap expands.
Next, we arrive at number two—Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever. Her one-year deal in 2025, worth exactly $249,244, made her the highest-paid player in the league at that time. Mitchell proved her worth by stepping up as a veteran leader and sharpshooter when the Fever faced injuries, notably after Caitlin Clark’s sidelining. As she becomes a free agent, fans and analysts alike anticipate a significantly larger deal before the new season kicks off, given her consistent performance and leadership role.
Finally, occupying the top spot is Jackie Young of the Las Vegas Aces. Young became the first player in WNBA history to surpass the $250,000 annual salary mark, thanks to her two-year extension initially signed in 2022 and re-extended in May 2024. Her contract, totaling an impressive $504,900, sets the benchmark for what’s possible and is now a reference point in ongoing negotiations for the league’s CBA. Known as a 'silent assassin'—a player who combines elite shooting skills with lockdown defense—Young's contract stands as a clear testament to her vital role on the reigning champions.
And this is the part most people miss—the massive contracts reflect more than just individual talent; they symbolize a growing recognition of women athletes’ value in the sports industry. As the league's visibility and ratings continue to rise, so too does the battle for fair compensation, sparking questions about how far the league can go in balancing revenue, player pay, and growth opportunities. Do you believe these contracts are just the beginning of a new era for women’s basketball, or are they still far from truly equal pay? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.
