As much as we enjoyed the exciting WNBA Finals contest between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx, it all worked out historic 2024 WNBA season comes to an end. For many players, that means they have to take their jobs in the offseason. Yes, WNBA players typically have a second job in the offseason because the majority of players – the ones who aren’t stars – need the money.

Superstar newbie Angel Reese can consider itself lucky. Her celebrity status has led to several high-profile endorsements, meaning she doesn’t have to play overseas in the off-season if she doesn’t want to. During a recent IG Live sessionshe commented on the disappointing pay WNBA players receive.

“Hate pays my bills, baby. I just hope you know that the WNBA doesn’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think this will pay any of my bills,” she said. “Literally, I’m trying to think about my rent for where I live (in Chicago). I’ll do the math real quick. I don’t even know my (WNBA) salary.”

Accordingly Sports IllustratedReese’s base salary for her first year in the league is $73,439. This does not include the $2,575 bonus for All-Star honors nor the $1,500 bonus for All-Star recognition 2024 WNBA All-Rookie Team. Teams also pay for housing during the season or offer a monthly stipend if players live elsewhere. However, anyone who has ever watched an episode of House Hunters set in Chicago can tell you that it is an expensive city to live in.

“Yo, I live beyond my means!” Reese explained, “No, my rent is higher. It’s $8,000. I live beyond my means.”

Low compensation for WNBA players has been a controversial topic for years. It reached a peak when Brittney Griner was wrongfully arrested in Russia while traveling to a game at UMMC Ekaterinburg. As the league reaches new heights of popularity, fans are hoping this will lead to higher salaries and benefits for all players, not just superstars.

“I couldn’t even eat a sandwich. I couldn’t even live,” Reese said.

The New York Liberty currently lead the Minnesota Lynx 2-1 in the 2024 WNBA Finals. The series continues with Game 3 on Friday, October 18 at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT on ESPN.