WNBA Star Breanna Stewart Prioritizes New York Opportunities Over Maximum Contract
New York’s premier basketball talent, Breanna Stewart, recently traded the hardwood for the high seas, participating in an exhilarating tour of New York Harbor aboard a 50-foot foiling catamaran. The three-time Olympic gold medalist, who was in the city for the SailGP international racing league, expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunities available in New York.
Stewart was among a select group of celebrities, including actor Ewan McGregor, to experience the “Sixth Sailor Experience.” This involved training with the SailGP crew in Brooklyn, where Stewart tested her strength operating the hand cranks that control the sails. The following day, she donned a high-tech wetsuit and experienced speeds of approximately 50 mph on a $5 million sailboat.
The international sailing circuit, often described as “Formula One on the water,” is known for attracting global elites. While Stewart was not an official competitor, she received a unique VIP experience. The league, funded by Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison, has seen investments from figures like actors Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds, who are involved with the Australian team. The USA SailGP team boasts owners such as actress Issa Rae and NFL stars DeAndre Hopkins and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Stewart’s Decision to Re-sign with the Liberty
Stewart highlighted that such high-profile opportunities were not as readily available during her previous stints with the WNBA’s Seattle Storm, or her international play in China, Russia, and Turkey. She cited New York as a key factor in her decision to re-sign with the Liberty for a reported three-year, $3.7 million deal, a move that allowed the team to retain its core players, including Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones.
This decision reflects a broader trend for Stewart, who has previously taken less to remain with the Liberty. She explained that her family enjoys living in New York, appreciating the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Stewart also emphasized the importance of balancing personal earnings with the team’s need for salary cap space to attract talented players.
“I think, wanting to obviously make as much as I can, while also making sure that [the Liberty] have the [cap] space to have a lot of great players is something that’s really important, and definitely wanted to make sure of that,” Stewart stated.
Impact of the New Collective Bargaining Agreement
Stewart, who also serves as vice president of the WNBPA executive committee, played a significant role in negotiating the WNBA’s new collective-bargaining agreement. This agreement substantially increased top salaries from $249,000 to $1.4 million. While Stewart benefited from this increase, she opted for a contract that prioritized team building over maximizing her individual earnings.
The improved labor deal has provided WNBA players with more options during the offseason. Previously, players often sought contracts overseas to supplement their income. Now, with increased earning potential and opportunities like the 3-on-3 league Unrivaled, which Stewart co-founded, players have greater flexibility.
Stewart mentioned her recent decision to play in a tournament in Istanbul for training purposes, which also coincided with her wife Marta Xargay’s home country. However, she clarified that this was not driven by financial necessity but rather a desire for competitive reps before returning to the Liberty.
WNBA’s Growing Value and Media Presence
The advancements in the WNBA’s labor agreement and financial standing are drawing attention across the sports world. Even figures like UFC boss Dana White have commented on the league’s improved salary structure, though he expressed skepticism about the figures compared to combat sports. Stewart, however, sees the WNBA’s progress as a model for other leagues, citing the National Women’s Soccer League’s recent collective bargaining agreement as a precursor.
“The blueprint behind it… female athletes want to make sure that they’re going to be valued, and that’s incredibly important, and I’m happy that we finally leveled up and are at a starting point where we can continue to grow, even seven years from now,” Stewart commented.
With the labor peace secured, Stewart is now focused on leading the Liberty to success on the court. The league is also poised to benefit from an 11-year media rights deal worth at least $281 million annually, expanding its reach to platforms like NBC, USA, Peacock, and Amazon Prime Video. This enhanced media presence is expected to boost viewership and attendance, further strengthening the league’s financial standing.
Stewart remains unfazed by the pressure of competing in a crowded summer sports calendar, a challenge she has navigated throughout her decorated career. She expressed excitement about the multitude of events in New York and her hope to attend as many as possible.
