As the WNBA continues to grow in revenue, reach, and cultural impact, the league’s top players are finally seeing salaries that better reflect their influence. The highest-paid WNBA players in 2025 are setting new standards in both compensation and visibility. With league-wide salary cap increases and a surge in endorsement opportunities, these athletes are not only dominating on the court—they’re becoming some of the richest WNBA players in history. This article highlights the nine top-earning women in the WNBA and explains how their WNBA salary stacks up in a changing landscape.

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1. Jackie Young – $252,450

Jackie Young leads the WNBA in 2025 as the highest-paid player in the league, earning a WNBA salary of $252,450. Her performance with the Las Vegas Aces, particularly in back-to-back championship runs, has earned her both team leadership status and a top-tier contract. As one of the most consistent two-way guards in the league, Young has translated her production into real value—and pay. In addition to her league earnings, Young is quickly building her presence in endorsements, solidifying her status as one of the richest WNBA players by combined income.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $252,450 (highest in league)
  
  
• Team: Las Vegas Aces
  
  
• Two-time WNBA champion
  
  
• Rising endorsement value

2. Kelsey Mitchell – $249,244

Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever earns a WNBA salary of $249,244, placing her just behind Young. Known for her sharpshooting and floor leadership, Mitchell has earned every dollar of her supermax contract. Her offensive versatility has helped anchor the Fever’s offense for several seasons. As one of the highest-paid WNBA players, Mitchell has also landed key brand partnerships and continues to rise among the richest WNBA players in 2025.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $249,244
  
  
• Team: Indiana Fever
  
  
• Elite scoring threat and team leader
  
  
• Supermax contract holder

3. Jewell Loyd – $249,032

Jewell Loyd, one of the Seattle Storm’s longest-tenured stars, continues to shine in 2025 with a WNBA salary of $249,032. Known for her ability to perform in clutch moments, Loyd remains one of the most feared offensive players in the league. She’s also heavily involved in league marketing initiatives, which boosts her presence as one of the richest WNBA players when factoring in her off-court brand deals.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $249,032
  
  
• Team: Seattle Storm
  
  
• Multiple All-Star appearances
  
  
• Brand ambassador for Nike

4. Arike Ogunbowale – $249,032

Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale matches Loyd’s WNBA salary at $249,032. Ogunbowale has made a name for herself with fearless shot selection, late-game heroics, and a dynamic presence that’s propelled the Wings into playoff contention. As one of the highest paid WNBA players, she also stands out for her visibility on social media and in marketing campaigns, helping elevate her into the ranks of the richest WNBA players in 2025.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $249,032
  
  
• Team: Dallas Wings
  
  
• Noted for buzzer-beater game winners
  
  
• Significant off-court brand influence

5. Kahleah Copper – $248,134

Now with the Phoenix Mercury, Kahleah Copper’s 2025 WNBA salary of $248,134 keeps her in the elite earning tier. Copper is widely respected for her defensive acumen, explosive drives, and postseason leadership. Her rise from role player to Finals MVP helped secure her place among the highest-paid WNBA players. With her growing endorsement base and team impact, she is also regarded as one of the richest WNBA players today.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $248,134
  
  
• Team: Phoenix Mercury
  
  
• Known for elite defense and Finals performance
  
  
• One of the league’s most respected veterans

6. Satou Sabally – $215,000

Satou Sabally, also playing for the Phoenix Mercury, earns a WNBA salary of $215,000 in 2025. Sabally is a versatile forward who excels in both shooting and rebounding. Her presence on the floor gives the Mercury critical flexibility, and her efforts have earned her a contract near the max salary level. She’s considered one of the brightest young stars among the richest WNBA players, with strong endorsement potential.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $215,000
  
  
• Team: Phoenix Mercury
  
  
• Versatile on both ends of the floor
  
  
• Rising endorsement appeal

7. Alyssa Thomas – $215,000

Alyssa Thomas is a relentless workhorse for the Phoenix Mercury, also making $215,000 in WNBA salary in 2025. Her all-around game—scoring, passing, rebounding—makes her indispensable. Thomas has built her value over years of consistency, and her max-level contract reflects that commitment. She’s earned a place on the list of highest-paid WNBA players through grit and versatility, and ranks among the most dependable of the richest WNBA players.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $215,000
  
  
• Team: Phoenix Mercury
  
  
• All-around threat and team cornerstone
  
  
• Known for durability and hustle

8. Brittney Griner – $214,466

Brittney Griner, now playing for the Atlanta Dream, earns $214,466 in WNBA salary in 2025. Her return to the court in 2023 was met with emotional support and admiration, and her performance since has been dominant. As one of the most recognizable faces in the WNBA, Griner remains a staple on lists of the richest WNBA players, not just for her salary, but for her global influence and brand reach.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $214,466
  
  
• Team: Atlanta Dream
  
  
• Former Defensive Player of the Year
  
  
• Global brand ambassador and humanitarian

9. Natasha Howard – $214,466

Indiana Fever forward Natasha Howard rounds out the list of highest-paid WNBA players with a 2025 WNBA salary of $214,466. Howard has earned her reputation as a key contributor with solid defense, rebounding, and playoff experience. Her reliable presence and veteran leadership have secured her place among the richest WNBA players paid purely through league contracts.

Highlights:

• 2025 WNBA Salary: $214,466
  
  
• Team: Indiana Fever
  
  
• Multi-time WNBA champion
  
  
• Consistent playoff performer

Understanding WNBA Salary Tiers

The WNBA’s salary cap structure remains one of the most discussed topics in sports economics. In 2025, the team salary cap is $1.507 million, with supermax contracts just under $253,000. Here's how the league currently breaks down:

Salary Tiers:

• Supermax: ~$249,000–$252,000
  
  
• Max: ~$214,000–$215,000
  
  
• Mid-level: ~$103,000–$79,000
  
  
• Rookie scale: ~$66,000–$79,000
  
  

The highest-paid WNBA players all occupy the top two tiers, while rookies and bench players typically earn far less unless supplemented by marketing or overseas play.

Women Leading the WNBA

The landscape of WNBA compensation is evolving fast. The highest-paid WNBA players in 2025 are paving the way for a more balanced future where elite talent is properly rewarded. From salaries to sponsorships, the richest WNBA players today aren’t just stars—they’re icons of progress, power, and purpose in professional sports.