WNBA players publicly protested during the 2025 All-Star weekend by wearing shirts that read "Pay Us What You Owe Us," highlighting their demands for higher compensation amid ongoing financial challenges in the league. The WNBA has operated at a loss since its inception in 1996, with recent estimates indicating annual losses of approximately $50 million to $55 million. With 144 players in the league, this translates to an average loss of around $347,222 per player annually. The league relies on financial support from the NBA and has never been profitable. Current salary structures include a minimum of $70,000 and a maximum of $1 million per player, with each team limited to a $3 million annual salary cap. Proposals to improve player compensation include revenue sharing from merchandise sales, bonuses tied to viewership and attendance, and adjustments to pay scales. However, critics question the feasibility of increased salaries given the league's financial deficits and emphasize the need for greater fan engagement and ticket sales to boost revenue.