The WNBA sent a revised CBA proposal, raising the max salary to over $1.5 million (with incentives) and providing four times the league’s mean salary. Apart from that, the WNBA also addressed player housing and facilities in the new CBA proposal. While many players and fans still see this as a smaller rise on the previous offer, Candace Parker’s shocking truth might give them an insight into how much the league is willing to spend on salaries.
In her recent podcast episode, the former LA Sparks star spoke about receiving the $12.34 check as her first salary from the WNBA. Although it was not the full amount on her rookie contract, her story revealed many factors that affect in-hand salaries.
Candace Parker Earning $12.34 As Her First WNBA Paycheck
The former Tennessee star was the top pick in the 2008 WNBA draft and subsequently earned the highest rookie contract, a $44,000 deal. The young star was looking to get a handsome amount for her first WNBA check, but she received just $12.34.
Talking about her first pay, she said, “When we got in that fight in Detroit and I was suspended for the Connecticut game the next day. I wish I would have had a camera phone to take a picture. I still had a Blackberry at that time, but my check was $12.34,” recalled Parker.
“The first check I got, though, I’m not going to lie, when I got to the WNBA, I was like, who the hell is FICA? Because FICA taking way too much money,” Parker said.
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The Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) is responsible for deducting money from each paycheck to increase credits for Social Security benefits. It’s a standard practice for employees. While it was just one reason for the deducted value on her first check, her infamous brawl against the Detroit Shock drew a heavy fine and a one-game suspension.
For the ongoing CBA, though, the three-time champions support players’ demands and see them controlling the negotiation.
Candace Parker Sees Power Within Players In CBA Discussions
While the WNBA and WNBPA remain poles apart in CBA discussions, competition from other leagues makes the situation tougher for the league. Natasha Cloud even hinted at players’ backup plan if the CBA talks couldn’t find common ground.
While the PA is standing firm on the demands, the former Finals MVP knows the reason. She said, “The power is always within the players, but obviously we want there to be a season. I think it’s super important for both sides to work together.”
With just three months left before the new season starts, the league must act fast to get the deal in place and give the green light to the expansion draft and free agency signings to meet the ‘deadline’.