The WNBA and its players’ union convened in New York City on Monday for their first face-to-face negotiation session in several weeks, aiming to finalize a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). After a three-hour meeting at the NBA offices, WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike declined to comment on the next steps. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, representatives from the Labor Relations Board, and team owners Clara Wu and Joe Tsai also attended. Key union leaders including Vice President Alisha Clark, Treasurer Brianna Turner, and player representative Stephanie Dolson were present, while Nafeesa Collier and Brianna Stewart joined virtually alongside Sparks guard and VP Kelsey Plumb.
Meanwhile, the WNBA and players’ union have reached a negotiation deadlock, prompting an extension of the deadline twice and transitioning into a “status quo” period starting January 9. This means the current terms of the CBA remain effective while talks continue, with both parties barred from unilateral work stoppages.
At the heart of the disagreement is revenue sharing. Players seek a better revenue split and salary framework, but the sides differ on whether to base sharing on net or gross income, the percentage allocated, and the salary cap structure. The league’s latest proposal reportedly offers players over 70% of net income, a base salary of up to $1 million, and revenue sharing that could push the top gross salary beyond $1.3 million in 2026, eventually nearing $2 million over the contract duration. Minimum annual pay would rise above $250,000, with average salaries climbing to more than $530,000 and growing to over $780,000 by contract’s end.
Assuming a new agreement is reached, the 2026 WNBA season is slated to tip off on May 8, marking the league’s 30th season.
Fan Take: This ongoing negotiation highlights how crucial fair pay and revenue sharing are to the growth and sustainability of the WNBA. A strong CBA not only elevates player compensation but also signals the league’s commitment to investing in its talent, which can drive greater fan engagement and help the sport reach new heights.
