The WNBA and the WNBPA are still at odds over how to split revenue as they work on a new collective bargaining agreement, according to a report by SBJ on December 4. The Athletic reported on December 3 that the league’s latest offer proposes players receive 15% of league and team revenue. However, the players’ union is pushing for 30%, highlighting a significant gap between the two parties that must be bridged.
Under the previous CBA, WNBA players earned 9.3% of revenue but opted out of that contract in October last year. SBJ noted that the players are unwilling to settle for an increase of just over 5%, signaling tough negotiations ahead.
The WNBA’s latest proposal would raise the salary cap to $5 million per team each season, with the cap increasing alongside revenue growth throughout the agreement’s term. The minimum player salary would rise to $225,000, the average salary to $500,000, and the maximum to $1 million. In contrast, the current CBA sets a $1.5 million team salary cap, with minimum player pay around $66,000 and maximum just above $249,000.
Both sides have agreed to maintain the current CBA while negotiations continue, extending the deadline to January 9.
Fan Take: This standoff is crucial for WNBA fans because revenue sharing directly impacts player salaries and the league’s growth. A fair deal could boost player earnings, enhance the league’s competitiveness, and ultimately elevate the sport’s profile and sustainability.
