The WNBA and the WNBPA are convening a crucial meeting in New York today, marking the first time players have gathered in person for Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) discussions since last October. According to ESPN reporters Ramona Shelburne and Alexa Philippou, this session could be decisive in determining whether a new deal will be reached or if the players might resort to striking.
Shelburne and Philippou also mention growing divisions within the WNBPA’s seven-member executive committee. One faction aims to use this moment to fundamentally overhaul the league’s revenue-sharing system, insisting that players should hold firm until they are fully satisfied with the new financial arrangement. Conversely, the other faction acknowledges that negotiations are ongoing but believes substantial progress has been made and a deal is within reach.
The executive committee comprises Nneka Ogwumike (President), Kelsey Plum (First Vice President), Elizabeth Williams (Secretary), Brianna Turner (Treasurer), Alisha Clark (Vice President), Nafeesa Collier (Vice President), and Breanna Stewart (Vice President). Ogwumike, Plum, and Collier are attending the meeting in person, while Stewart is participating remotely as her team, the Mist BC, plays in Miami. Williams is currently competing in Turkey with Galatasaray, while Turner and Clark are engaged in Athletes Unlimited, which kicks off Wednesday in Nashville.
Shelburne and Philippou did not specify which committee members align with each viewpoint. In an interview with SB Nation’s Noah Dalzell, Ogwumike stressed that there remain key issues on which the players have not compromised but emphasized that they are negotiating in good faith. She highlighted that the timing of the contract’s finalization is less important than ensuring the agreement is solid.
Ogwumike stated, “Ideally this should be completed a little faster, but I want a good deal, not one rushed by a schedule. We are eager for the season and want to come through this process proud of both the outcome and how we got there. The players want to play and be recognized for their contributions on the court — that’s what today’s negotiations are about.”
Shelburne and Philippou also pointed out that all committee members prefer to engage directly with team owners rather than navigating through multiple layers of intermediaries and lawyers.
Fan Take: This critical meeting could reshape the future of the WNBA, directly impacting players’ earnings and the league’s financial structure. For fans, a fair and strong CBA means better support for athletes and a more competitive, sustainable league that can continue to grow and inspire.
