Allisha Gray’s smile was wide, holding a trophy in each arm and knowing her bank account would soon see a serious influx of cash. She earned $115,150, a substantial 62% of her $185,000 base salary. Gray became the first WNBA All-Star to win both the skills and 3-point competitions in one night, defeating Sophie Cunningham in the skills finals and Jonquel Jones in the 3-point contest.
Gray is also the first player to earn so much during the All-Star weekend’s first night of festivities. The WNBA awards $2,575 to each competition’s winner, but for the first time, Aflac added $55,000 to each winner’s prize. This significant contribution was highlighted by WNBA Players Association president Nneka Ogwumike, who praised the move as a step toward parity with the men’s game.
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We got a showdown on our hands! The USWNT will take on the WNBA All Stars tonight – come see who NZ is taking!https://t.co/r6DHvh62Nc pic.twitter.com/hNjwiVHUlO— Betting News (@YourBettingNews) July 20, 2024
The WNBA has seen notable growth this season, with unprecedented viewership, attendance, and sponsorship. Merchandise sales were robust, and fans were active around Phoenix, reflecting the league’s increasing popularity. Ogwumike expressed hope that Aflac’s investment would inspire other companies to support the WNBA.
The skills competition featured players like Marina Mabrey, Kayla McBride, and Brittney Griner. In the 3-point contest, notable absentees were Sabrina Ionescu and Caitlin Clark, who were focused on other commitments. Despite some fatigue from the skills challenge, Gray was able to stay focused and secure both victories, earning significant payouts.
A’ja Wilson told me her must haves while competing at 2024 Olympics; her brand expansion & more… #ALLINLV #USABasketball #WNBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/oISMd6hMVO
— Nick Hamilton (@NickHamilton213) July 20, 2024
The WNBA’s 2020 collective bargaining agreement increased maximum salaries by 82%, but players continue to seek further improvements, especially with a new media deal and CBA on the horizon. Diana Taurasi, a 20-year veteran, emphasized the need for higher salaries to prevent players from having to go overseas.
The CBA can be opted out of by November 1, and a new media deal could provide an influx of cash for higher salaries. Cheryl Miller, a Hall of Famer, argued that the current deal isn’t enough and called for further financial growth.
WNBA 2024 All-Star Friday: Allisha Gray wins skills challenge, 3-point shootout⤵️https://t.co/YX2XQtrQCg
— The Athletic WBB (@TheAthleticWBB) July 20, 2024
The All-Star event in Phoenix showcased the league’s evolution, with high-profile sponsorships, a significant fan presence, and vibrant festivities. The event highlighted the progress made and the exciting future for the WNBA. Gray, who won both competitions, plans to invest her winnings and hinted at buying new golf clubs and treating her team to dinner.
Key Points:
- Allisha Gray won both the skills and 3-point competitions at the WNBA All-Star event, earning $115,150.
- Aflac added $55,000 to each competition winner’s prize, a significant step toward parity with men’s basketball.
- The WNBA has seen significant growth in viewership, attendance, and sponsorships this season.
- Players are pushing for further salary increases with a new media deal and CBA negotiations on the horizon.
- The All-Star event showcased the WNBA’s evolution and highlighted the exciting future for the league.
Greg Handlis – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
