WNBA Stars Secure New Franchise Tags Valued at $1.4 Million
WNBA players Sabrina Ionescu, Napheesa Collier, and Kelsey Plum have received franchise tags from their respective teams, each valued at approximately $1.4 million. This move comes as the free agency window opens in the league.
Franchise Tag Impact
By designating these athletes as “core” players, their teams secure exclusive negotiating rights. This designation guarantees a one-year contract at the new supermax salary, significantly higher than previous earnings.
Key Players with Core Designation
- Sabrina Ionescu – New York
- Napheesa Collier – Minnesota
- Kelsey Plum – Los Angeles
- Kelsey Mitchell – Indiana
- Arike Ogunbowale – Dallas
- Allisha Gray – Atlanta
- Ariel Atkins – Chicago
- Ezi Magbegor – Seattle
This change allows players to negotiate terms that can aid their teams in signing other athletes under the new salary cap, projected to be around $7 million.
Expansion Teams Join the Fray
Newly expanded franchises, Portland and Toronto, have also entered the fray by offering franchise tags. Portland selected Bridget Carleton first in the recent draft and offered her a tag. Toronto followed suit, designating Marina Mabrey, picked sixth overall.
Understanding Franchise Tags
The franchise tag serves as a mechanism to keep players from leaving without compensation during free agency. Teams can also engage in sign-and-trade agreements to secure player transfers.
Changes in Core Designation Rules
Starting in 2027, the core designation can only be applied twice to players with fewer than seven years of league experience.
Negotiation Timeline
The period for negotiations began recently and includes reserved and restricted qualifying offers. Key dates include:
- Negotiation Period: Wednesday to Friday
- Signing Begins: Saturday
- Training Camp Start: April 19
- First Preseason Games: April 25
Free Agency Landscape
This year’s free agency is particularly competitive, with over 80% of veteran players entering the market. Many players had signed short-term deals, anticipating higher salaries under the new collective bargaining agreement ratified in late March.
As teams navigate this active free agency period, the strategic use of franchise tags is critical to securing top-tier talent while managing salary cap constraints.
