WNBA Proposes New CBA with Enhanced Housing Provisions
The WNBA has proposed a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) aimed at improving housing provisions for players. This proposal, made on February 7, 2026, introduces significant changes but lacks major updates on the revenue-sharing system.
Key Provisions of the Proposed CBA
One of the central features of the proposal is enhanced housing support for players. Under the new terms:
- Players earning the applicable minimum salary and those with no years of service will receive a one-bedroom apartment for their first three years.
- Developmental players are set to be assigned studio apartments.
These concessions mark a notable shift from previous agreements, which did not explicitly address housing provisions. Since the establishment of the league’s first CBA in 1999, teams have been required to provide accommodation but could choose between one-bedroom apartments or stipends.
Financial Aspects of the CBA
The financial negotiations remain a contentious aspect of the talks. The league has proposed a $5.65 million salary cap for 2026, up from around $1.5 million in 2025. This cap is expected to increase in alignment with the league’s revenue growth.
Projected salaries for players indicate:
- Maximum salaries in 2026, including revenue-sharing payouts, could hit $1.3 million.
- By 2031, these maximum salaries might rise to approximately $2 million.
- The average player salary, which includes revenue sharing, is expected to reach $540,000 in 2026 and $780,000 by 2031.
Conversely, the players’ association has submitted a proposal for a $10.5 million salary cap. They also aim for 30% of gross revenue before expenses, arguing that the league’s assertion of less than 15% is inaccurate. The league estimates that the union’s proposal could result in $700 million in losses, affecting its financial stability.
Upcoming Negotiations and Considerations
As these discussions unfold, both the league and the players’ union acknowledge the importance of housing standards. During the recent bargaining session, other significant proposals included:
- More guaranteed contracts per team.
- New developmental player roster spots.
- Elimination of marijuana testing.
- Increased team contributions to retirement accounts.
The WNBA players’ association (WNBPA) leadership plans to evaluate the league’s latest proposal shortly. In December, the player body authorized the executive committee to strike if necessary, keeping a strong negotiation position.
The 2026 WNBA season is set to begin on May 8, but a new CBA must be finalized before then. Additionally, a two-team expansion draft and the free agency period for most veterans will follow the agreement.
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