INDIANAPOLIS –

On the eve of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, star players took to the court for warm-ups wearing T-shirts emblazoned with a powerful message related to their ongoing contract negotiations with the league: “Pay us what you owe us.”

Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum shared that players had a meeting the day of the event where they decided on this statement. This sentiment echoed throughout the event, with Brittney Sykes from the Washington Mystics holding a sign reading “pay the players” during post-game interviews, while the crowd chanted in support.

The atmosphere was charged as WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert spoke, with fans chanting “pay the players” amid calls for justice in their compensation. Plum called this show of support “a very powerful moment.”

Earlier, team leaders like Napheesa Collier and Caitlin Clark reported that many athletes participated in discussions surrounding labor rights. Collier emphasized their united stance on improving areas they feel strongly about regarding player welfare.

In October 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association opted out of the existing collective bargaining agreement, which is set to expire after the 2025 season. However, discussions this weekend with the league have yielded minimal progress, leaving many players feeling frustrated.

Star player Breanna Stewart expressed disappointment in the latest meetings, urging for deeper discussions on substantial issues. Meanwhile, both sides aim to finalize a new agreement before key upcoming events, including the introduction of new teams and free agency, but face significant opposition.

The players’ solidarity during the All-Star festivities symbolizes their collective strength and determination to advocate for improved conditions and compensation.