Transitioning from the Court: The Post-WNBA Careers of Sue Wicks, Marissa Coleman, and Devereaux Peters

The transition from professional basketball to a second career poses significant challenges for many former WNBA players. Despite the league's increasing revenue from sponsorships and ticket sales, the average salary for WNBA players remains at approximately $120,000, starkly contrasting with the NBA's average salary of around $11.9 million. This financial disparity often necessitates that former female athletes pursue new careers out of necessity rather than choice. Sue Wicks, a retired WNBA star and Hall of Famer, reflects on her own journey, stating, “Some days you’re like, ‘Why am I doing this?’” as she navigates her aquaculture farm started at age 50.

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The career trajectories of former WNBA players vary widely. Marissa Coleman, a 2009 second overall draft pick and 2015 WNBA All-Star, emphasizes that many women athletes must find work after basketball primarily due to financial constraints. In contrast, she notes that NBA players often engage in post-career work more out of boredom than necessity. Devereaux Peters, another former player, transitioned to real estate development, where she faced a steep learning curve and financial adjustments. Peters is currently involved in an affordable housing project in South Bend, Indiana, which she describes as “the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” but also the most rewarding.

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The support available for WNBA players transitioning to new careers has evolved since Wicks' playing days in the league's early years. Jayne Appel Marinelli, Senior Vice President of Player Relations for the WNBA Players Association, highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face, despite initiatives like joint tuition assistance and internship programs. These efforts aim to help players recognize the transferability of their skills to various roles outside of sports. Coleman, who has taken advantage of such programs, emphasizes the importance of mentorship and career planning, stating, “I knew I didn’t want to be one of those players that retired, and it was like, ‘Oh gosh, what now?’”

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As the WNBA continues to grow, discussions around player compensation remain a contentious issue. Both the league and the players' union recently agreed to extend their collective bargaining agreement while negotiations continue, with revenue sharing being a significant point of contention. Wicks hopes for a future where players are compensated adequately, allowing them the freedom to pursue their passions beyond basketball.

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The experiences of Wicks, Coleman, and Peters underscore the need for improved support systems for WNBA players transitioning to life after basketball. As the league evolves, so too must the structures in place to ensure that players are prepared for their futures, both financially and professionally. The general lifespan of a basketball player is limited, and as Peters notes, “You have to be prepared to not be here tomorrow or the next year.”

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