💬 “As Long As It Takes”: Angel Reese Fires Back at Critics After Hinting She Might Sit Out the WNBA Over $75K Contract — ‘I Know My Worth’

Angel Reese has spoken — and she’s not backing down.
The WNBA rookie sensation, known as much for her competitive fire as her unapologetic confidence, is once again setting the internet ablaze after hinting she may sit out the upcoming season due to her controversial $75,000 rookie contract.

Critics rushed to label her “entitled” or “ungrateful,” but Reese is having none of it. In a bold social media post that’s already been shared tens of thousands of times, she fired back with a message loud and clear:

“I know my worth. I’ll wait as long as it takes.”

The Contract Controversy

Angel Reese, a breakout star from LSU and a cultural icon following her NCAA dominance, was selected by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft. But her rookie deal — reportedly worth just $75,000 annually — has sparked outrage among fans, players, and sports analysts alike.

Many are calling the figure “insultingly low” for a player with Reese’s brand power, viewership draw, and social media presence. To put it in perspective, Reese has millions of followers, NIL deals that once surpassed seven figures, and helped lead LSU to record-breaking women’s basketball ratings.

So when whispers of her possibly sitting out started circulating, few were surprised — but the backlash from some corners of the sports world was swift and sharp.

Reese Responds With Fire

In response to critics claiming she should “pay her dues” or “be grateful,” Reese posted a powerful message on X (formerly Twitter):

“Men get paid millions to ride the bench. I bring fans, sponsors, and attention — and I’m supposed to settle for less because I’m a woman? Miss me with that. As long as it takes, I’ll wait.”

She followed it up with a photo of herself courtside in designer heels and the caption:

“Bet on yourself. Always.”

Support From Across the League

While some have tried to paint Reese as “diva-like” or “disruptive,” many WNBA players and legends have come to her defense.
Candace Parker reposted her message with the fire emoji.
A’ja Wilson tweeted:

“It’s not just about Angel. It’s about all of us. Pay these women what they deserve.”

Even NBA stars chimed in, with LeBron James reportedly telling ESPN:

“She’s absolutely right. If you bring value to the league, you should be paid for that value. Period.”

Is the WNBA Ready for a Shift?

The WNBA has long struggled with compensation inequality, and Reese’s bold stance might be the flashpoint that pushes the issue to the top of the agenda. League executives have not officially commented, but insiders say there are “active discussions” about restructuring rookie contracts in light of growing attention and revenue.

One source hinted that Reese’s team is already in quiet talks with brand sponsors who may help “bridge the gap” if she sits out — a sign that Reese’s business instincts are as sharp as her post moves.

The Bottom Line

Love her or criticize her, Angel Reese is forcing the WNBA — and the sports world — to confront an uncomfortable truth: women athletes are bringing massive value, and they’re tired of being underpaid and undervalued.

She may be sitting out for now, but she’s standing tall in a way that could change the future of women’s sports.