Published May 18, 2024 2:33 PM EDT | Updated May 18, 2024 2:33 PM EDT
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It’s been quite a week for the Las Vegas Aces.
Players received their championship rings Tuesday at Michelob Ultra Arena as the team unveiled a brand new banner to commemorate the 2023 WNBA Championship.
But things got even better for the back-to-back champions on Friday, when each athlete received a $100,000 sponsorship from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The surprise announcement was made to the team by Steve Hill and leaders of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Bureau (LVCVA).
“Today we want to do something new, something we don’t think anyone has done before. We want to recognize you as individuals and we want to put money in your pocket.” Hill told his players in the locker room. Everyone laughed as they approached.
“The offer is very simple. Just play and keep getting reps in Las Vegas. And if we can get a three-peat, that would be great.”
NBA players can easily spend $100,000 on their pregame outfits, but this is a big change for the women of the WNBA. According to Spotrac, six ace players currently earn less than her six-figure annual income.
The annual salary of a star player is as follows.
Kelsey Plum: $200,000 Aja Wilson: $200,000 Chelsea Gray: $196,267 Jackie Young: $169,950 Alesha Clark: $110,000
So, needless to say, an extra 100 grants in the bank is a huge deal.
Kelsey Plumb shows off her championship ring.
(Photo by David Becker/NBAE via Getty Images)
This sponsorship is independent of the Aces organization as the franchise itself cannot arrange additional compensation or endorsements on behalf of the players, per the collective bargaining agreement.
The LVCVA is funded solely by lodging taxes paid by visitors to the city. If you visit Las Vegas this year for gambling, billiards, and clubbing, Kelsey She Plum and her pals will be there to thank you.
