They’ve been friends, rivals, and teammates on USA Basketball, but when it comes to building wealth, Sophie Cunningham and Napheesa Collier are on their own unique paths. Their story starts way back in high school, where their competitive fire was first lit. Fast forward to 2026, and both are established stars in the WNBA, using their on-court excellence as a springboard for significant off-court success. But the big question fans are asking is: who has the higher net worth? The answer might surprise you.
According to recent financial estimates, the Sophie Cunningham vs Napheesa Collier net worth battle currently sees Cunningham in the lead, with a reported $2 million to Collier’s $1.5 million . But as we’ll explore, these numbers tell only part of the story. Their wealth isn’t just from their WNBA paychecks—it’s a result of savvy endorsements, business ventures, and their powerful personal brands. Let’s dive into the full financial playbook of these two incredible athletes.
Table of Contents
- The Sophie Cunningham vs Napheesa Collier Net Worth Showdown
- On-the-Court Earnings: A Salary Breakdown
- The Endorsement Game-Changer
- Beyond the Basics: Business Ventures and Investments
- The Future of Their Financial Legacies
- Conclusion: Wealth is More Than a Number
- Sources
The Sophie Cunningham vs Napheesa Collier Net Worth Showdown
The headline numbers are clear: Sophie Cunningham’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, while Napheesa Collier’s sits at $1.5 million . At first glance, this gives Cunningham a clear edge. However, net worth is a complex calculation that factors in assets, liabilities, and long-term investments, not just annual income. To truly understand their financial standings, we need to look at the sources of their wealth.
On-the-Court Earnings: A Salary Breakdown
The WNBA’s salary structure has seen significant improvements in recent years, but it still pales in comparison to other major professional sports leagues. For elite players like Cunningham and Collier, their base salaries are just the foundation.
- Sophie Cunningham (Phoenix Mercury): As a key veteran on her team, Cunningham is likely on a mid-level to high-level contract under the WNBA’s new CBA, potentially earning in the range of $200,000-$250,000 annually for the 2025/26 season .
- Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx): As a team leader and All-Star, Collier is probably on a similar tier, with an annual salary also estimated to be in the $200,000-$250,000 bracket .
Their on-court pay is relatively comparable, which means the real divergence in their net worth comes from what they do off the court.
The Endorsement Game-Changer
This is where Sophie Cunningham has made significant strides. Her charismatic personality and strong social media presence have made her a favorite for brands looking to connect with a younger, engaged audience.
Cunningham has secured notable deals with major companies like Adidas and State Farm . These partnerships not only provide a substantial income boost but also elevate her public profile, creating a virtuous cycle for future opportunities. Her role as a co-host on a popular sports podcast has also expanded her media footprint, a valuable asset in today’s influencer-driven market.
Napheesa Collier, while a dominant force on the court, has been more selective with her endorsements. She has a strong partnership with Under Armour, a brand that aligns well with her athletic and grounded image . She’s also been involved in community-focused initiatives, which, while not always direct revenue generators, build immense goodwill and long-term brand value.
Beyond the Basics: Business Ventures and Investments
Both athletes understand that a professional sports career is finite. They are actively investing in their futures.
Cunningham has shown an interest in the business world, participating in a WNBA-backed venture capital fund that invests in women-led startups . This move not only diversifies her portfolio but also positions her as a savvy investor and a leader in the movement for financial equity in sports.
Collier, on the other hand, has focused on building a legacy through her foundation. Her charitable work, while philanthropic, also cements her status as a respected community leader, which can translate into future board positions, speaking engagements, and other high-value opportunities.
The Future of Their Financial Legacies
The gap in their current net worth may be $500,000, but the future is wide open. Collier’s status as a franchise player for the Lynx could lead to a more lucrative long-term contract extension. Cunningham’s media and endorsement path could see her income skyrocket beyond her playing days.
Both are prime examples of the new generation of female athletes who are not just players, but CEOs of their own personal brands. Their financial success is a direct result of their hard work, strategic choices, and the growing market for women’s sports. For more on the business of women’s basketball, see our deep dive on [INTERNAL_LINK:wnba_business_growth].
Conclusion: Wealth is More Than a Number
The Sophie Cunningham vs Napheesa Collier net worth comparison is more than just a financial exercise; it’s a reflection of two different, yet equally successful, blueprints for building a career in the modern sports landscape. Cunningham’s path through media and broad endorsements contrasts with Collier’s focus on athletic excellence and community impact. While Cunningham currently holds a higher net worth, both are winning the long game by creating sustainable, multi-faceted careers that will extend far beyond their final WNBA game.
Sources
- Net worth estimates and career earnings:
- WNBA salary cap and contract details from the 2020 CBA: [[4], [7]]
- Endorsement deal information for Cunningham and Collier: [[10], [13]]
- Information on WNBA athlete business ventures:
- Official WNBA website for league and player information: https://www.wnba.com/