The growth of women's basketball is reshaping the landscape of professional sports, offering players like the Valkyries a life-changing option. The WNBA's newly ratified collective bargaining agreement, marked by dramatic salary increases, is a game-changer. For decades, WNBA stars have left the U.S. for higher pay, but now, with the rise of leagues like Unrivaled, they can stay home. This shift is particularly significant for players like Gabby Williams, who has signed a multiyear deal with Unrivaled, offering elite competition, pay, and the opportunity to remain in the U.S. during the offseason. The league's average salary of $222,000 in 2026 is a stark contrast to the $40,000 rookie salary Williams earned in 2015. This transformation in the WNBA is not just about money; it's about choice. Players like Kiah Stokes, who entered the league in 2015, knew the financial realities of overseas play. Now, with the option to stay in the U.S., they can focus on their careers and personal lives. The rise of the WNBA and leagues like Unrivaled and Project B is not just about financial gains; it's about the freedom to choose one's path. For international players, the decision is more complex. Italian sharpshooter Cecilia Zandalasini jokes that the WNBA is her overseas league, highlighting the shift in financial dynamics. French center Iliana Rupert and Janelle Salaun, both with European pro experience, now have the choice to stay in the U.S. or continue their careers abroad. Lithuanian guard Justė Jocytė, who turned pro at 14, sees the benefits of staying in the U.S. despite the challenges. The WNBA's expansion and the rise of new leagues are not just about salaries; they're about the future of women's basketball. As the league grows, the options for players expand, and the sport's global reach continues to evolve. The Valkyries' success and the rise of new leagues are a testament to the power of choice and the potential for women's basketball to thrive.
