The WNBA is projected to bring in between $180 million and $200 million in combined league and team revenue this year, up from about $102 million in 2019, according to people familiar with the matter. 

Base salaries as a share of total revenue actually shrank to around 9.3% in fiscal 2022, which ended on Sept. 30, from 11.1% in fiscal 2019. NBA players make 51 percent of basketball related income as part of their CBA.

The current WNBA collective bargaining agreement was agreed upon in January 2020 and the contract runs through 2027. Either the league or players can opt out of the agreement at the end of the 2025 season. The union is expected to exercise the option.

For now, base salaries are locked in at a set rate for the contract’s duration, with an annual increase of about 3% for inflation. For the 2023 season, the minimum is $62,285 and the maximum is $234,936. 

Viewership for the first WNBA finals game last year was up 171% over 2021. 

Unlike in the NBA, team revenue and league revenue are considered separate in the WNBA. Team revenue is largely made up of ticket sales, merchandise, food and beverage sales, local corporate sponsorships and local broadcasting rights. Teams use these funds for player salaries.