WNBA Clarifies After Betting Video With Reese and Bueckers Sparks Backlash

A short clip shared by the WNBA on Wednesday showed Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers joking about a $400 bet before the Dream–Wings game.

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Reese held cash and teased, “Imma see y’all on Wednesday. If y’all lose …” Bueckers laughed, “I get to have that,” pointing at the money. Reese followed, “If y’all win, you get the 400,” while Bueckers added, “If we lose, then you get to keep it.” Reese ended the exchange with, “No, you owe me 400.”

The WNBA later admitted the post “missed the mark” and removed it soon after. “While the social media post was intended to be lighthearted, WNBA players are well aware of the league’s policies prohibiting betting on WNBA games and receive training every year reinforcing those policies,” the league said. 

Officials explained the matter was handled internally and stressed that even jokes about wagering can carry consequences.

Players to go unpunished

The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement signed before this season leaves no doubt about its stance on gambling. Article 14 devotes an entire section to betting rules, with provisions against fixing results and requiring players to report any offers made to them.

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Sub‑section c goes further, giving the commissioner authority to fine, suspend or even dismiss any player found wagering on league games.

Despite those rules, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers will not face penalties for the video that showed them joking about a $400 bet. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has the discretion to act, but according to a league source, no punishment will be handed down.

The source, who was not authorized to speak publicly, confirmed the decision.

Neither player appeared to treat the exchange as a violation. Bueckers laughed off the bet in the clip, while Reese later joked about it after Atlanta’s 82‑81 win. Asked about the “discussion with Paige” before the game, she laughed and said she would be “requesting my Apple Pay” to collect on the wager.

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Source: The Athletic