"He’s not even in the league anymore": Satou Sabally Hits Back With Scathing Mockery of Patrick Beverley Over Harsh CBA Negotiation Comment

Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally responded to Patrick Beverley’s comment with a scathing mockery. The former Milwaukee Bucks player criticized WNBA players for seeking better pay but complaining about the league’s demanding game schedule.

“These players deserve more money but come on man, you gotta play back to backs,” professional basketball player Pat Beverley said. “It’s part of it…Don’t lose me.”

Sabally's response was noted when she appeared on the 2025 edition of Glamour Magazine's “Women of the Year.”

“I actually chuckled about his comment because he’s not even in the league anymore,” Satou responded. “That’s my first comment. My second comment is really looking at how much they get paid. They get paid to do these things. We don’t have a pension. I think we’re far away from comparing the MNBA to the WNBA because they get compensated fairly.”

The three-time WNBA All-star has been one of the more outspoken players on scheduling, roster size, overseas pay, league proposals and financial fairness. She highlighted her earnings with the Unrivaled to her league earnings and claimed that the league doesn’t want the players to earn what they deserve.

The league is embroiled in a deadlocked CBA negotiation with the players. Reports have claimed that no progress has been made so far, with the Oct. 31 deadline looming.

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Satou Sabally advocates for rookies

Satou Sabally advocated for rookies to get better pay in the new CBA. While no agreement is yet in place, she wants to see that the rookies get what they deserve especially with increased game time coming up.

“I know the league came, but with like 300 [thousand],” Sabally said. “Push it up. Push it up. Go up, especially if you want to extend the season [schedule]. And now we’re talking about extending the season, you need to go up with these numbers because, honestly, that’s what they deserve right now.”

The WNBA’s salary structure has been up for debate. Players have argued that the league’s increased popularity should see them earn based on their contributions to its growth. Compared to the men in the NBA, the players of the WNBA earn considerably less.

Satou Sabally has earned $710,298 in her six seasons in the league. Last season was the first time in her career that she earned above $200,000.

Edited by Ubong Richard