WNBA players make strong statement during All-Star Game warm-ups amid CBA drama
By Josh Sanchez

WNBA players did not hold back ahead of the All-Star Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Saturday night.
During pre-game warmups, players took off their warm-up jackets on the court to unveil t-shirts with a secret message to the league amid ongoing collective bargaining drama.
Players and the league met for CBA negotiations this week, but there was no progress made.
The t-shirts during warm-ups had a clear message.
Both teams wearing shirts that read “Pay Us What You Owe Us” #WNBA pic.twitter.com/LB4LBAbPNr
— Aliyah Funschelle (@AliyahFun) July 20, 2025
The shirts had social media buzzing.
The message, "Pay us what you us," was heard loud and clear. Even reigning Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark joined in on the protest.
WNBA all stars wearing a "Pay us what you owe us" shirt in warmups pic.twitter.com/jIj2W6N6kw
— CJ Fogler 🫡 (@cjzero) July 20, 2025
With interest and league popularity at an all-time high, players are hoping to see pay raises and more benefits when the new CBA is agreed on.
But, for now, they're suiting up and ready to put on a show for the Indianapolis crowd.
The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game tips off at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
GET MORE TOP STORIES from The Big Lead by subscribing to TBL YouTube channel
NFL: Philadelphia Eagles unveil epic Super Bowl 59 rings with hidden wings
CFB: Bill Belichick, UNC football docuseries coming to Hulu after HBO debacle
SPORTS MEDIA: Super Bowl champ wants Donald Trump meeting to get old Washington NFL team name back
TOUR DE FRANCE: Protester gets tackled, tossed over barrier by security guard
VIRAL: SportsCenter trolls viral Coldplay kiss cam mishap by Astronomer CEO Andy Byron