A basketball court can light up with energy like nothing else. Every fast break, three-pointer, and buzzer-beater sends fans roaring in excitement. But behind every point scored and every championship win, it’s the players who carry the game on their shoulders. And the highest-paid WNBA players show just how valuable elite talent can be.
Stars like Breanna Stewart, Kelsey Mitchell, and Chelsea Gray have proven that skill, leadership, and dedication come with a premium. Their performances not only inspire fans but also shape the legacy of women’s basketball.
In this article, we will explore the current highest-paid WNBA players and understand what makes their careers and contributions stand out in the world of sports.
What are the WNBA Salary Tiers?
WNBA salaries vary based on experience, contract type, and league rules. The league uses tiers to structure pay.
- Rookie Contracts: New players start with lower salaries, typically under $70,000.
- Veteran Contracts: Experienced players earn more, usually $150,000–$250,000.
- Max Contracts: Elite players can earn the highest tier, over $250,000.
Salary tiers also consider endorsements, bonuses, and overseas play. The WNBA sets limits to maintain fairness while rewarding top talent. Players can move between tiers as they gain experience or sign bigger deals.
The 20 Highest-Paid WNBA Players Making the Biggest Impact on the Court
These athletes command top salaries for their skill, consistency, and impact on the court. This list shows who earns the most and also highlights the rising stars shaping the league’s future.
We have compiled this list according to the base salary of these players.
| Sr. No | Player | Base Salary | Playing Position | Current Team |
| 1 | Jackie Young | $252,450 | Guard | Las Vegas Aces |
| 2 | Kelsey Mitchell | $249,244 | Guard | Indiana Fever |
| 3 | Jewell Loyd | $249,032 | Guard | Seattle Storm |
| 4 | Arike Ogunbowale | $249,032 | Guard | Dallas Wings |
| 5 | Kahleah Copper | $248,134 | Guard/Forward | Phoenix Mercury |
| 6 | Diana Taurasi | $234,936 | Guard | Phoenix Mercury |
| 7 | Gabby Williams | $225,000 | Forward | Seattle Storm |
| 8 | Alyssa Thomas | $215,000 | Forward | Connecticut Sun |
| 9 | Satou Sabally | $215,000 | Forward | Dallas Wings |
| 10 | Brionna Jones | $214,466 | Center | Connecticut Sun |
| 11 | Brittney Griner | $214,466 | Center | Phoenix Mercury |
| 12 | Natasha Howard | $214,666 | Forward | Dallas Wings |
| 13 | Skylar Diggins-Smith | $214,666 | Guard | Seattle Storm |
| 14 | Napheesa Collier | $214,284 | Forward | Minnesota Lynx |
| 15 | Jonquel Jones | $209,000 | Center | New York Liberty |
| 16 | Breanna Stewart | $208,400 | Forward | New York Liberty |
| 17 | Nneka Ogwumike | $205,000 | Forward | Seattle Storm |
| 18 | Chelsea Gray | $196,267 | Guard | Las Vegas Aces |
| 19 | Azurá Stevens | $195,000 | Forward | Los Angeles Sparks |
| 20 | Allisha Gray | $190,000 | Guard | Atlanta Dream |
1. Jackie Young
- Base Salary: $252,450
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Las Vegas Aces
Jackie Young is a dynamic guard known for her speed and scoring ability. She has quickly become one of the most reliable players for the Las Vegas Aces. Her agility allows her to create opportunities on both offense and defense. Young’s versatility on the court makes her a key asset for her team. She has won three WNBA championships with the Aces and has been named a WNBA All-Star multiple times.
Achievements: 3× WNBA Champion, 4× WNBA All-Star, WNBA Most Improved Player, Finals scoring record, triple-double milestone.
2. Kelsey Mitchell
- Base Salary: $249,244
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Indiana Fever
Kelsey Mitchell excels in shooting and fast breaks. She consistently ranks among the top scorers for the Indiana Fever as well as one of the highest-paid WNBA players. Mitchell’s quick decision-making helps her drive the ball efficiently. Fans and coaches praise her consistency and court awareness. Her offensive focus keeps her team competitive in tight games. Mitchell was the second overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft and has been a three-time WNBA All-Star.
Achievements: 3× WNBA All-Star, WNBA All-Rookie Team, Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award.
3. Jewell Loyd
- Base Salary: $249,032
- Contract AAV: $245,508
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Seattle Storm
Jewell Loyd brings experience and precision to the Seattle Storm. She is known for her clutch plays and scoring versatility. Loyd can switch between perimeter shooting and driving to the basket with ease. Her leadership influences younger teammates and elevates the team’s performance. Loyd is a WNBA Rookie of the Year and a multiple-time All-Star.
Achievements: 3× WNBA Champion, WNBA Rookie of the Year, 6× WNBA All-Star, All-WNBA selections, 2 Olympic gold medals.
4. Arike Ogunbowale
- Base Salary: $249,032
- Contract AAV: $241,984
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Dallas Wings
Arike Ogunbowale is a sharp guard with excellent scoring instincts. She shines in high-pressure situations and can change the game in a few plays. Ogunbowale’s speed and agility allow her to navigate defenses easily. She remains a constant threat to opposing teams, especially in close matches. Ogunbowale has been a four-time WNBA All-Star and set an All-Star game scoring record.
Achievements: 4× WNBA All-Star, 2× All-Star Game MVP, franchise scoring leader, fastest to 4,000 career points.
5. Kahleah Copper
- Base Salary: $248,134
- Contract AAV: $245,059
- Playing Position: Guard/Forward
- Current Team: Phoenix Mercury
Kahleah Copper combines strength and skill as a guard/forward. She contributes both offensively and defensively for the Phoenix Mercury. Copper’s ability to drive to the basket and hit mid-range shots makes her versatile. Her energy and determination inspire teammates during tough games. She was WNBA Finals MVP when the Chicago Sky won the title in 2021 and has been a four-time All-Star.
Achievements: WNBA Finals MVP, 4× WNBA All-Star, veteran scorer.
6. Diana Taurasi
- Base Salary: $234,936
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Phoenix Mercury
Diana Taurasi is a legendary guard with unmatched experience. She excels at long-range shooting and playmaking. Taurasi’s presence on the court lifts team performance and morale. Her strategic thinking makes her a constant threat to opponents. She is one of the WNBA’s all-time scoring leaders and has won multiple championships. These achievements have earned her a high price tag and a spot amongst the highest-paid WNBA players.
Achievements: Multiple WNBA championships, all-time league scoring leader, numerous All-Star selections.
7. Gabby Williams
- Base Salary: $225,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Seattle Storm
Gabby Williams is a forward who combines athleticism with court intelligence. She excels in transitions and fast breaks. Williams also contributes significantly on defense, guarding multiple positions. Her energy drives the team during critical moments. She has been selected for WNBA All-Star games and fills key roles on both ends of the floor.
Achievements: WNBA All-Star, defensive specialist.
8. Alyssa Thomas
- Base Salary: $215,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Connecticut Sun
Alyssa Thomas is a skilled forward with an all-around game. She can score, rebound, and defend efficiently. Thomas is known for her basketball IQ and court awareness. Her consistency helps the Connecticut Sun maintain competitiveness throughout the season. She has earned WNBA All-Star honors and recorded multiple triple-doubles.
Achievements: WNBA All-Star, triple-double performer.
9. Satou Sabally
- Base Salary: $215,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Dallas Wings
A key star and one of the highest-paid WNBA players, Satou Sabally is a forward with impressive skills and agility. She can shoot from mid-range and handle the ball under pressure. Sabally also excels in defense, blocking shots and securing rebounds. Her versatility makes her a key player for the Dallas Wings. She continues to grow as a consistent two-way contributor.
Achievements: Core starter, two-way forward contributor.
10. Brionna Jones
- Base Salary: $214,466
- Playing Position: Center
- Current Team: Atlanta Dream
Brionna Jones is a strong center who dominates the paint. She excels at rebounds, blocks, and inside scoring. Jones uses her size and positioning to control the key area. Her presence forces opponents to adjust their strategies. She has led her team in rebounds and paint scoring across multiple seasons.
Achievements: Rebounding leader, interior scoring presence.
11. Brittney Griner
- Base Salary: $214,466
- Playing Position: Center
- Current Team: Phoenix Mercury
Brittney Griner is a towering center known for her defense and shot-blocking. She also contributes offensively with high-percentage shots near the basket. Griner’s size and skill make her a critical player for the Phoenix Mercury. She remains one of the league’s most dominant interior defenders.
Achievements: Elite shot blocker, defensive anchor, interior scorer.
12. Natasha Howard
- Base Salary: $224,675
- Contract AAV: $214,666
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Dallas Wings
Natasha Howard is a versatile forward known for her defensive skills. She can guard multiple positions while contributing offensively. Howard’s strength and timing make her a rebound threat. Her agility also allows her to make quick offensive plays. She has earned WNBA Defensive Player of the Year honors and helped her teams make strong playoff runs.
Achievements: WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, All-WNBA selections, playoff performer.
13. Skylar Diggins-Smith
- Base Salary: $190,000
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Seattle Storm
Skylar Diggins-Smith is a skilled guard with scoring and playmaking abilities. She controls the tempo and creates chances for her team. Diggins-Smith’s consistency and leadership are crucial during tight games. Consistent All-Star appearances secure her spot as one of the highest-paid WNBA players. Her experience strengthens the Seattle Storm’s backcourt. She is a multiple-time WNBA All-Star and All-WNBA selection.
Achievements: Multiple WNBA All-Star, All-WNBA guard, veteran leader.
14. Napheesa Collier
- Base Salary: $214,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Minnesota Lynx
Napheesa Collier is a forward with scoring and defensive versatility. She can shoot from outside, drive inside, and defend multiple positions. Collier’s athleticism and energy make her a consistent contributor. She has earned WNBA All-Star honors and ranks among the league’s top two-way players.
Achievements: WNBA All-Star, two-way impact forward.
15. Jonquel Jones
- Base Salary: $188,000
- Playing Position: Center
- Current Team: New York Liberty
Jonquel Jones is a dominant center who excels in rebounding and inside scoring. She uses her height and strength to control the paint. Jones also contributes on defense with blocks and contests. Her presence makes the New York Liberty more competitive near the basket. She has earned WNBA MVP honors and All-Star selections.
Achievements: WNBA MVP, All-Star center, rebounding leader.
16. Breanna Stewart
- Base Salary: $214,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: New York Liberty
Breanna Stewart is one of the highest-paid WNBA players, known for her scoring and team impact. She is a forward with excellent scoring and rebounding skills. She is highly efficient on offense and reliable in defense. Stewart’s court vision allows her to create plays for teammates. Her presence elevates the New York Liberty’s performance. She has won WNBA championships and earned league MVP and Finals MVP honors.
Achievements: WNBA Champion, League MVP, Finals MVP, elite scorer.
17. Nneka Ogwumike
- Base Salary: $205,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Seattle Storm
Nneka Ogwumike is a forward known for defense and versatility. She contributes with rebounds, scoring, and leadership. Ogwumike’s experience makes her a reliable presence on the court. She can adjust to different roles depending on team needs. She has earned WNBA All-Star selections and All-WNBA honors.
Achievements: WNBA All-Star, former league MVP, veteran leader.
18. Chelsea Gray
- Base Salary: $208,000
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Las Vegas Aces
Chelsea Gray is a guard who excels in playmaking and scoring. She sets up teammates while also taking crucial shots herself. Gray’s calm demeanor helps in high-pressure moments. Her leadership and skills strengthen the Las Vegas Aces. She has played a major role in multiple championship runs.
Achievements: WNBA Champion, Finals MVP, elite playmaker.
19. Allisha Gray
- Base Salary: $195,000
- Playing Position: Guard
- Current Team: Atlanta Dream
Allisha Gray is an elite scorer listed among the highest-paid WNBA players today. She is a quick guard who excels in scoring and defense. She can drive to the basket and hit outside shots. Gray’s agility makes her a tough opponent for defenders. Her energy adds momentum for the Atlanta Dream in fast-paced games. She continues to play a key scoring role in the backcourt.
Achievements: All-Star selection, reliable scoring guard.
20. Azurá Stevens
- Base Salary: $195,000
- Contract AAV: $195,000
- Playing Position: Forward
- Current Team: Los Angeles Sparks
Azurá Stevens is a versatile forward who brings size, skill, and balance to the frontcourt. She scores efficiently in the paint and can step out to hit mid-range shots when needed. Her length helps her contest shots and secure key rebounds. Stevens also fits well into team systems that value spacing and defensive discipline.
Achievements: WNBA Champion, WNBA All-Star, WNBA National Champion
Also read:
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- Baseball’s $700M Era: The Highest-Paid MLB Players Redefining Sports Wealth in 2026
Conclusion:
The WNBA continues to grow in talent, viewership, and influence, and player salaries reflect that progress. The highest-paid WNBA players earn their place through consistent performance, leadership on the court, and impact beyond the game.
Their success shows how dedication and excellence can shape careers and elevate women’s basketball. As the league expands and gains more recognition, pay structures are also evolving. This shift signals a stronger future for players and fans alike. Watching these athletes compete is not just about the scoreboard. It is about witnessing the growth of a sport that continues to inspire the next generation.
FAQs
1. How much do the highest-paid WNBA players earn?
Salaries vary by contract and bonuses. Top players can earn over the league’s maximum base salary, with additional income from endorsements.
2. Do endorsements affect earnings for WNBA players?
Yes, endorsements play a major role. Many of the highest-paid WNBA players earn significantly more from sponsorships than from league salaries alone.
3. Are WNBA salaries increasing over time?
Yes, player salaries have increased in recent years. New collective bargaining agreements and growing popularity continue to push pay higher.
