The WNBA has stated that a deleted social media video featuring players Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers making a wager on an upcoming game "missed the mark." The post, which appeared on the league's official X account before Wednesday night's Dallas Wings vs. Atlanta Dream matchup, showed the two prominent players discussing a $400 bet on the game.
The league quickly removed the video, with a WNBA spokesperson explaining on Thursday that while "intended to be lighthearted," the post was inappropriate. "WNBA players are well aware of the league's policies prohibiting betting on WNBA games and receive training every year reinforcing those policies," the statement read. The WNBA noted that the matter was handled internally and that the incident would serve as an opportunity to reemphasize with the players that "conversations about wagering on WNBA games, even when intended as a joke, can have negative consequences."
It remains unclear whether "internally" refers to conversations with Reese and Bueckers or with the individual responsible for posting the video. The Atlanta Dream confirmed they had no further comment beyond the league's statement, while the Dallas Wings did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Angel Reese reportedly joked after the game that she would be collecting her winnings from Bueckers via Apple Pay. Betting on any aspect of WNBA games is strictly prohibited under the league's collective bargaining agreement. Article 14, Section 5 of the agreement details gambling regulations, stating that any player found to have wagered on a WNBA competition "shall, in the sole discretion of the Commissioner, be subject to a fine, suspension, and/or dismissal and disqualification from any further association with the WNBA."
In comparison, other professional sports leagues enforce stringent anti-gambling policies. The NFL can impose a minimum one-year suspension for betting on NFL games not involving a player's own team, escalating to a two-year suspension for betting on their team. Major League Baseball enforces a one-year suspension for betting on non-team games and a lifetime ban for betting on a player's own team.