Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally recently made headlines for her scathing response to former NBA player Patrick Beverley’s comments about WNBA players and their demand for better pay. Beverley had criticized WNBA players for complaining about the league’s demanding game schedule while seeking increased compensation.
In an interview with Glamour Magazine’s “Women of the Year” 2025 edition, Sabally didn’t hold back in her response to Beverley’s remarks. She first pointed out that Beverley is no longer in the league, undermining the validity of his comments. She then emphasized the stark differences in pay between the NBA and WNBA, highlighting the lack of a pension for WNBA players and the disparity in compensation.
Sabally, a three-time WNBA All-Star, has been vocal about various issues affecting WNBA players, including scheduling, roster size, overseas pay, league proposals, and financial fairness. She revealed that the league is currently embroiled in a tense CBA negotiation with the players, with no progress being made as the October 31 deadline approaches.
One of Sabally’s key advocacy points is for rookies to receive better pay in the new CBA. She stressed the importance of compensating rookies fairly, especially with the potential for increased game time in the future. Sabally urged the league to increase rookie salaries, pointing out the players’ contributions to the WNBA’s growth and popularity.
The debate over the WNBA’s salary structure has been ongoing, with players arguing that they should earn based on their value to the league. Compared to their male counterparts in the NBA, WNBA players earn significantly less. Sabally herself has earned $710,298 over six seasons in the league, with last season being the first time she earned above $200,000.
In conclusion, Sabally’s advocacy for fair compensation and better working conditions for WNBA players is a crucial aspect of the ongoing discussions between the league and its players. As negotiations continue, the hope is that a new CBA will address the concerns raised by players like Sabally and ensure a more equitable and sustainable future for the WNBA.
