The WNBA’s Equal Pay Demands: A Comprehensive Look at Finances, Attendance, and Viewer Preferences

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has become a focal point in the debate over equal pay in professional sports. Players and advocates argue that WNBA athletes should earn salaries comparable to those of their male counterparts in the NBA, pointing to their skill, dedication, and the growing popularity of women’s basketball.

However, this demand clashes with a stark reality: the WNBA loses money every year, relies heavily on subsidies from the NBA, and struggles to attract significant audiences.

Financial Losses and NBA Subsidies: A League on Life Support

The WNBA’s financial situation is dire. Despite nearly three decades of operation, the league has never turned a profit. In 2024, it is projected to lose $50 million, a figure that highlights its ongoing dependence on the NBA. The NBA, which generates approximately $10 billion in revenue annually, effectively subsidizes the WNBA, covering an average annual deficit of $10 million. By comparison, the WNBA’s projected revenue for 2023 was between $180 million and $200 million—a fraction of the NBA’s earnings.

This financial disparity directly impacts player compensation. NBA players receive about 50% of the league’s basketball-related income, while WNBA players take home less than 10% of their league’s revenue. Critics argue that the WNBA’s demands for equal pay ignore this economic reality: the league simply doesn’t generate enough money to support higher salaries. Without the NBA’s backing, the WNBA would likely cease to exist, raising the question of whether it should even be in business given its inability to stand on its own.