Seattle Storm's Gabby Williams leaves WNBA amid Caitlin Clark controversy

Gabby Williams, a notable player for the Seattle Storm, has exited the WNBA to pursue her basketball career in Europe, specifically with Fenerbahce in Turkey, amid comments on salary discrepancies within women’s basketball. The 28-year-old left the league following her team's playoff loss to the Las Vegas Aces, after criticizing WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s claim that players could earn up to $700,000 annually. Williams pointed out that no player earns that amount through WNBA salaries alone, declaring "That's actually not true at all."

Her remarks have caused widespread discussion, igniting a debate particularly after Caitlin Clark's earnings highlighted disparity issues. Fans claimed that Clark earned more than $700,000 in her rookie season; however, Williams emphasized her critique focused on WNBA earnings, stating, "Clark makes $70,000 in the WNBA. The rest is from endorsements," thereby highlighting the gap between base salaries and additional income from sponsorships.

Williams also expressed frustration over the unfulfilled promises of marketing deals within the league, which has steered many international players to seek more lucrative opportunities abroad. She stated, "We were promised team and league marketing agreements, but they've fallen quite short," adding that staying in the states didn’t make financial sense for most players.

Throughout the 2024 season, Williams had averaged 10.3 points, four rebounds, and 3.7 assists. Having been drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2018, her decision adds to a growing trend of WNBA players leaving for better financial prospects overseas. Meanwhile, the 22-year-old Caitlin Clark enjoyed a record-breaking year, further cementing her status as one of the finest collegiate players.

Earlier, SSP wrote that atletico Madrid's Robin Le Normand was severely injured after the head collision.