While the spotlight in professional basketball often shines on the players, referees play an essential role in every game — keeping the pace, ensuring fairness, and managing the intensity of elite competition. In the WNBA, where the league continues to grow in visibility and reach, the role of referees is just as critical.
But how much do WNBA referees actually make? And how does their pay compare within the wider world of professional sports officiating?
Here’s a full breakdown of WNBA referee earnings in 2025 — and what factors into those numbers.
As of 2025, WNBA referees earn between $30,000 and $60,000 per season, depending on experience and assignment level. Entry-level officials, often newer to the league or still transitioning from college-level officiating, are typically on the lower end of that scale.
Veteran referees, especially those with years of service or playoff experience, can earn significantly more — with additional opportunities for game fees and postseason bonuses.
It's important to note that the WNBA season is shorter than its NBA counterpart, typically running from May to September, which naturally results in smaller total season compensation when compared to leagues with longer calendars.
In addition to base salaries, WNBA officials are often compensated on a per-game basis, with estimates ranging from $500 to $1,500 per game. These rates vary based on tenure, game type, and league classification.
High-profile games, such as national TV matchups or playoff rounds, may carry higher per-game payments. Officials also receive compensation for travel days and mandatory training events, which are factored into their overall income for the year.
Referees selected to officiate in the WNBA Playoffs or Finals earn additional bonuses, which can boost their total income significantly for the season. These assignments are merit-based and typically reserved for top-performing officials, as judged by internal evaluations and grading systems.
Working a Finals game is both a professional honor and a financial reward — though, like in other leagues, only a small percentage of officials are selected.
While WNBA referees travel frequently throughout the season, their travel expenses are fully covered by the league. This includes flights, hotels, and per diem for meals and incidentals. These non-salary perks help reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensure that referees can focus on performance.
Full-time referees may also qualify for health benefits and retirement contributions, depending on their employment status with the league.
Compared to the NBA, WNBA referee salaries are lower — a reflection of the WNBA’s shorter season, smaller revenue base, and overall league scale. NBA referees earn between $250,000 and $550,000 annually, often working more games and a longer calendar.
That said, many WNBA officials also work in other leagues (including NCAA or FIBA competitions) to supplement their income during the offseason. It’s not uncommon for officials to rotate between leagues year-round, building experience and financial stability along the way.
In summary: WNBA referees in 2025 typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 per season, with additional income from game fees, travel stipends, and playoff bonuses. While not as high-profile as their NBA counterparts, these officials play a crucial role in the league’s operations — and their pay reflects the growing professionalism within women’s basketball.
