Gabby Williams, a former WNBA star, had a dramatic start to her overseas basketball career in Turkey, which took an unexpected turn when fireworks were thrown onto the court by fans.
This incident occurred during her debut game for Fenerbahce S.K., following her decision to leave the WNBA after voicing concerns about the league’s pay structure and Caitlin Clark’s earnings.
A Dramatic Debut
On Wednesday night, during the FIBA Super Cup match against Besiktas, chaos erupted in the arena when spectators began tossing fireworks onto the court.
Williams and her teammates were quickly rushed to safety, along with the opposing team, as the referees had no choice but to pause the game.
The unsettling scene unfolded in the first quarter, leaving players visibly concerned as they were ordered back to the locker room amid safety fears.
Fortunately, no players or officials were injured during the fireworks incident.
However, the game was suspended and will resume the following day at the same score and time, with Fenerbahce leading 4-2 at the moment of the interruption.
Controversial Comments
Earlier this week, Williams stirred up headlines with her candid remarks about player salaries in the WNBA.
She argued that the compensation for players, particularly those like Clark, is grossly inadequate.
Williams criticized the league for not meeting the expectations set for salaries, especially considering the increased viewership and attendance numbers this season.
However, her rookie year was marred by allegations of bullying and racial privilege.
Williams also directed her frustration at WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who claimed that players could earn up to $700,000 annually.
Williams rebutted this statement, asserting, “That’s actually not true at all. There’s not one player who makes that.”
A Player’s Dilemma
As a first-round draft pick by the Chicago Sky in 2018, Williams expressed dissatisfaction with the financial support for players, mentioning that promised marketing agreements had not materialized.
She emphasized that international players like herself often opt for overseas contracts to secure better financial stability.
“If I make a choice to make more money… that’s how it is,” she explained, highlighting the tough decisions players face in the current landscape.
In a social media exchange, a fan of Clark pointed out that she had surpassed $700,000 in earnings during her rookie season, despite a base WNBA salary of only $76,000.
Williams clarified her statement, indicating that she was solely referring to WNBA salaries, not including income from endorsements or other deals.
“Clark makes $70,000 in the WNBA,” she reiterated. “So I know all these Caitlin Clark fans are like, ‘Caitlin Clark makes $700,000.’
That’s off of endorsements… to everyone saying, ‘Leave the country if you’re unhappy in America,’ I did.”
What Lies Ahead for Williams?
With this turbulent beginning to her time in Turkey, fans are left wondering how Williams will adapt to her new team and the challenges that lie ahead.
Her outspoken nature may continue to make headlines as she navigates her overseas career, and many are eager to see how she’ll address the ongoing issues surrounding player compensation in women’s basketball.
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