The article titled “WNBA Rumors: Why 7-figure maximum contract value in CBA negotiations is ‘misleading'” from ClutchPoints discusses the ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) talks between the WNBA and its players’ union. Last month, both parties agreed to extend negotiations by 30 days before the initial October 31 deadline, now facing a second deadline on November 30. Recent information about the WNBA’s proposal suggests a potential rise in the highest possible contract value.
Reports indicate the WNBA is proposing starting maximum contracts near $1 million in these talks. However, Annie Costabile from Front Office Sports points out this figure is somewhat deceptive. The touted $1 million maximum depends on meeting specific revenue-sharing targets. According to sources, the supermax base salary remains between $800,000 and $850,000 annually, similar to the early October offer. The $1.1 million number reflects a total that includes both base salary and additional revenue-sharing incentives, meaning no player would secure a guaranteed base salary of $1.1 million in 2026 under the current proposal.
Negotiations have been tense, notably in September when Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier criticized the league at her retirement press event, prompting a disappointed response from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. During the recent WNBA All-Star Weekend, fans vocally demanded better pay for players, and the athletes themselves made a bold statement by wearing “Pay Us What You Owe Us” shirts at warmups.
The WNBA is experiencing significant growth, with Game 1 of the Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury setting a 28-year viewership record.
Fan Take: This development highlights the ongoing challenges in fairly compensating WNBA players despite the league’s surging popularity. How these negotiations conclude could set a critical precedent for the future growth and sustainability of women’s professional basketball.
