The WNBA's Indiana Fever selected two-time Naismith College Player of the Year Caitlin Clark as the first overall draft pick at a ceremony held at the historic Brooklyn Academy of Music on Monday night.
Following Clark in the Top 5 overall draft results included Stanford forward Cameron Brink to the Los Angeles Sparks, South Carolina center Kamilla Cardoso to the Chicago Sky, University of Tennessee small forward Rickea Jackson to the Sparks, and Ohio State University point guard Jacy Sheldon to the Dallas Wings.
The hosts of TODAY with Hoda & Jenna shared their excitement over the announcements but were disappointed by Clark's paltry pay grade outlined in her four-year rookie contract.
In 2024, Clark will receive $76,535 followed by $78,066 in 2025, $85,873 in 2026, and $97,582 in 2027.
TODAY host Hoda Kotb noted that the number one draft pick in the NBA made $10 million in the first year.
"This is like picking at an old scab for women," said Kotb of the "jarring" gender pay discrepancy.
You can watch the TODAY segment here.
According to the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement, the first four draft picks will receive a $338,056 four-year contract, broken down to $76,535 in 2024, $78,066 in 2025, $85,873 in 2026, and an optional base of $97,582 in 2027.
Online, the celebratory news was also overshadowed by a heavy discussion about the low WNBA salaries.
Fans and fellow pro athletes were outraged by the numbers.
NFL quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Russell Wilson, said:
"These ladies deserve so much more..."
"Praying for the day."
Others joined in venting their frustration.
It's important to note that WNBA athletes can earn money in endorsement deals.
Clark has already partnered with brands like Nike, State Farm, and Gatorade.
However, the salary offered to pro female athletes in contrast to their male counterparts is inexcusable, especially after the NCAA Women's Basketball National Championship saw a historical rise in popularity among viewers.
The championship game was the most-viewed women's college basketball game ever and the most-watched basketball game since 2019, according to Nielsen ratings,
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