@hawkeye10,
In one sense (although this doesn't much help the women financially) is what makes the WNBA so great. These women tend to finish college (unlike the men) and they play because they love the game obviously not for the financial incentive. I wonder when the basketball season is for women overseas? I know that many seem to play in both the US and overseas or maybe just in different years.
I've seen many of these former players end up being very successful in future jobs/business. My husband has a few contacts via linkedin where they have their own business or have prestious jobs in business.