At the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, the league’s top players made headlines even before tip-off by walking onto the court in black T-shirts boldly reading: “Pay Us What You Owe Us.”
This powerful display wasn’t just fashion — it was a unified message from the players as they push for a more equitable collective bargaining agreement with the WNBA.
Why They’re Protesting
The current CBA was terminated earlier this year by a player vote, giving the WNBPA leverage to negotiate a new deal. Their demands include:
- Higher base salaries
- Greater revenue sharing
- Improved travel and housing benefits
- Enhanced maternity and family leave
With the league seeing massive growth — including a $2.2 billion media deal and new expansion revenue — players argue they deserve a significantly larger share.
Star Power Behind the Message
Over 40 players, including rookies like Caitlin Clark and veterans like Breanna Stewart, wore the shirts during warm-ups. Clark emphasized the wage gap, saying:
“That’s one of the things we’re in the room fighting for… We should be paid more.”
What’s Next?
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert called the talks “constructive” and remains hopeful about a “transformational” agreement. However, with the current deal set to expire at season’s end, pressure is rising.
A Shift in Focus
While WNBA players have long been recognized for their leadership on social justice issues, this moment marks a shift toward labor rights and pay equity, signaling a new era of athlete activism focused inward, on the league itself.