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WNBA earnings are rising, but will they be enough? The real story behind the numbers – the essence

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – OCTOBER 06: A’ja Wilson #22 of the Las Vegas Aces brings the ball up the court against Betnijah Laney-Hamilton #44 of the New York Liberty in the first quarter of Game 4 of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs Semifinals at Michelob ULTRA Arena on October 6, 2024 . in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Liberty defeated the Aces 76-62, winning the series three games to 1. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this image, User consents to the terms of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

When Angel Reese signed with the Chicago Sky and was chosen seventh overall in the 2024 WNBA draft, it entered a league completely different than five years ago. The compensation landscape has modified dramatically – but let’s be honest about whether these changes are truly transformational or simply an incremental step towards what these athletes deserve.

The raw numbers tell the story of progress. 2024 WNBA season boasts the highest earnings in the history of the leagueand top players will be capable of earn as much as $241,984. Supermax pay has increased 94% since 2019, when the league’s elite players reached $121,500. Even minimum wage for newbies increased to $64,154 – greater than double the amount in 2019. But that is where it gets complicated. While The WNBA salary cap has reached $1.4 million per team in 2024, The NBA salary cap is $140 million. Yes, you read that right. And before anyone makes the “but revenue” argument, let’s acknowledge that even after accounting for differences in league revenue, WNBA players receive about 33% of the league’s revenue, while NBA players receive about 50%.

For most WNBA players, to make it work, meaning playing year-round. According to AP, about 50% of players also compete abroad during the WNBA off-season. Stars like Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson can fetch top dollar in each markets, but this double duty comes at a value – physical fatigue, time away from family and the mental strain of never really having an off-season season.

Marketing dollars tell a totally different story. League Collective labor agreement for 2020 included provisions for increased marketing opportunities, but in 2023, only a handful of players have signed deals with major brands. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s NIL valuation has reached $3.1 million before she even declared for the WNBA draft – highlighting each the potential and the disparity in how women’s basketball talent is valued.

The racial dynamics are particularly striking. In the league where over 60% of gamers are black womenthe conversation around fair pay is not only about gender – it’s about racial equality in sports. When we discuss WNBA salaries, we’re talking about undervaluing the work of Black women, and it is a story that reverberates far beyond the basketball court.

The league has taken steps in the right direction. The latest CBA introduces progressive elements similar to fully paid maternity leave, improved travel accommodations and potential income sharing opportunities. These changes come after years of player activism, led by women like Angel McCoughtry and Nneka Ogwumike who weren’t afraid to demand higher.

But let’s be clear, higher than before does not imply ok. When the WNBA minimum salary is barely above median household income in the USwe’re not only talking about the gender pay gap – we’re talking about the fundamental devaluation of girls’s skilled sport.

The query is not whether WNBA players should be grateful for these raises. The query is why, in 2024, we still have to make the case for fair compensation for skilled athletes who consistently produce world-class results, drive civil conversations, and encourage the next generation of athletes.

Pay rises are the starting, not the end. As viewership increased, the 2024 WNBA Finals saw: Viewership increase by 115%. in comparison with the previous 12 months – the pace of real changes is gaining momentum. The numbers are growing, yes, but until they reflect the true value these athletes bring to the game, our work isn’t done.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Celebrity Coverage

ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence

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With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is predicted to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Nineteen Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.

Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.

From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.

In case you missed it, take a have a look at 17 of the perfect celebrity beauty moments from the week below.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Black artists shine with 2024 Christmas albums – Essence

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This holiday season, a few of the most talented Black music artists are reimagining the sounds of Christmas. From the soulful sounds of gospel legends to the contemporary kind of rising stars, these albums offer something for everybody who wants so as to add splendor to their celebrations. Whether it’s fresh takes on timeless classics, moving original songs, or reissues of beloved favorites, these projects bring joy, warmth and a way of community to everyone.

Jennifer Hudson makes her holiday debut with a track that mixes powerful vocals and heartfelt melodies. CeCe Winans brings a spiritual touch and Coco Jones adds her unique talent. Celebrating her thirtieth anniversary, Mariah Carey returns to the zeitgeist, and the reissue of Boyz II Men offers the right, cozy soundtrack.

As you decorate the halls and meet your family members, let these albums fill your space with music that uplifts, inspires and sets the right holiday mood. Here’s a more in-depth have a look at Black artists bringing joy to the world with their Christmas 2024 releases.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Let Anok Yai’s spiky bun inspire your holiday hair look – the essence

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Images by Dave Benett/Getty

Earlier this week, Model of the Year nominee Anok Yai appeared at the Fashion Awards gala at London’s Royal Albert Hall. And regardless that the night ended there controversial joke for this yr’s award, the look of her hair stood out, as did her skilled achievements.

Paired with an archival John Galliano gown from 1994, her hairstyle was as avant-garde as the supermodels of the day – and was the most groundbreaking look of the night. On the foundation, a pixie cut with micro-mushrooms framed her sculpted features, and the sides stopped just at the tip of her eyebrows.

However, the summit took an unexpected turn. Almost like a headdress, straight, long strands gathered at the top of the head, overlapping right into a bow. The look was romantic and evoked the essence of Mugler’s Alien Hypersense, of which it’s the face. “I carry a bottle in every purse, it’s an addiction” Yai said in front of the red carpet.

The iconic outfit was repeated by Rihanna, who two days later arrived in an identical style at the thirty eighth annual Footwear Awards Gala in New York. With slight moderation – longer, blunt bangs and full updo – hairdresser Nafia Biała used an identical technique. Could this be the hottest hair trend of the season? These two icons actually suggest that.


This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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