WNBA, Players Union Unite Monday to Negotiate CBA Details – The Athletic
The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) will convene on Monday at 2 p.m. ET. This meeting aims to negotiate details regarding the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The current CBA expired earlier this year, and both parties have limited time, with less than 100 days remaining before the 2026 season begins.
Negotiation Background
Following the expiration of the CBA, the league and the players’ union implemented a free-agency moratorium in January. Although there have been smaller informal discussions since then, Monday’s gathering marks the first formal meeting involving team owners, league representatives, and the players since December.
Meeting Participants
- Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President
- Kelsey Plum, First Vice President
- Napheesa Collier, Vice President
A source involved in the negotiations mentioned that the players had a strategy call earlier this week. The call aimed to address concerns over the stalled negotiations, particularly given the league’s lack of response to the players’ last proposal submitted in December.
Key Issues in Negotiations
The central issues at stake involve the players’ salary structure and the revenue-sharing model. The league has proposed a system in which expenses will be deducted from revenue before players receive their share. Conversely, the players have advocated for a model where revenue is divided prior to expenses being accounted for.
Revenue Sharing Proposals
Both parties agree that any new CBA should not include revenue targets necessary for sharing to commence and should be uncapped. The WNBA’s recent proposal suggests an average salary of $530,000 for the first year, with a maximum salary reaching $1.3 million. In contrast, the players’ latest proposal states an average salary of over $800,000.
Future Considerations
Upon finalizing the CBA, the WNBA will have further critical tasks, including an expansion draft for Toronto and Portland, as well as free agency featuring more than 100 unrestricted free agents. The league has already scheduled the college draft for April 13 and the season opener for May 8.
Historical Context
Notably, throughout its 30-year existence, the WNBA has never experienced a work stoppage. In comparison, the NHL had a nearly four-month lockout in 2013, and the NBA underwent a 161-day lockout in 2011, which shortened the season to 66 games. The WNBA’s commitment to continuous play highlights its dedication to maintaining a stable environment for athletes.
