WNBA legend Candace Parker has expressed her support for the improved pay that incoming rookies will receive under the newly ratified collective bargaining agreement. She, however, urged them to be prudent in how they use the money they are about to receive, including the possibility of investing it.
The three-time WNBA champion shared her perspective on the “Post Moves” podcast with Aliyah Boston, saying the incoming rookies should take the opportunity to grow their earnings early — more so now that they have more flexibility with salaries raised higher than ever before.
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“I just really am excited about where the WNBA is. I think we’re in a great position now where there’s an investment in the WNBA. Now players are going to have more power because they’re signing more checks with zeroes behind them … So, you got to make sure you come correct, this rookie class,” Parker, whose first WNBA paycheck amounted to $44,000, said.
“I think everybody should just take care of the money. Obviously, I think there’s [should be] a happy balance. Like, live your life, splurge, do things, but make sure you’re, um, the name of the game is compounding [your earnings]. So, you got to invest early,” she added.
Huge jump in WNBA rookie earnings
Following years of modest player pay, the WNBA will see a massive jump in its salary structure beginning in the 2026 season. It comes after the league and the players agreed to a new CBA that includes revenue sharing and expanded benefits.
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The deal took into consideration the WNBA’s growth over the past few years, as shown by increased viewership, rising gate attendance and the emergence of bankable stars
Among those who will benefit from the rise in pay is the rookie class of 2026, led by top overall pick Azzi Fudd of the Dallas Wings.
The former UConn star is expected to receive $500,000 in her rookie season, significantly up from what last year’s top overall pick, Paige Bueckers, received at $78,831.
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Fudd is set to earn around $2.2 million for her rookie contract for four years, getting $520,000 in her second year, $572,000 (third) and $646,360 (fourth).
Second pick Olivia Miles (Minnesota Lynx) is set to earn $466,913, while third and fourth picks Awa Fam Thiam (Seattle Storm) and Lauren Betts (Washington Mystics) are to receive $436,016 and $407,163, respectively.
The 2026 top 15 picks’ average salary for the first year is about $386,000 — more than five times higher than the roughly $70,000 average for the 2025 group.
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In addition to higher salaries, the new league CBA will bring enhanced player benefits, including guaranteed housing, chartered flights and stronger pregnancy protections.
Parker growing her brand
While Parker did not receive the same amount as the current rookies, she made sure to find ways to compound her finances by not relying solely on her WNBA earnings.
As her game grew, so did her brand through partnerships with major companies like Adidas and Gatorade. She also went overseas to play and, admittedly, earned more as a player.
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Parker also dipped her hands in broadcasting, even when she was still playing and transitioned well into it now that she is retired.
She also invested in ventures that advanced women’s sports and athletes, including as part-owner of the Los Angeles-based National Women’s Soccer League team Angel City FC.
With the great opportunity now to earn good money, WNBA rookies are better served to heed Parker’s advice and start early in putting it to good use.
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This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Apr 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
