PHILADELPHIA — Negotiations over the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) have hit a deadlock, raising the possibility of a strike as player frustrations grow. To address these concerns, prominent players, league representatives, and union leaders are set to meet Monday in New York in hopes of breaking the stalemate.
Among those expected at the critical meeting are WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike and union leaders such as Kelsey Plum and Nafeesa Collier. Also present will be additional union officials, the WNBA’s Labor Relations Board, team owners, and members of the league’s board of directors. Many see this face-to-face discussion as a potential turning point in the ongoing talks.
Veteran player Azura Stevens expressed readiness to strike if a new agreement isn’t reached. “If the league wants to play without a CBA, I have other income sources,” Stevens said after participating in an event ahead of Unrivaled’s Philadelphia tour stop. “It’s really their loss — it’s ridiculous that this is dragging on.”
The league has yet to respond to the union’s proposal submitted over a month ago, reportedly waiting for a more “realistic” offer. With less than 100 days remaining before the 2026 season commences, many players are growing increasingly disheartened by the stalled progress.
“I’m frustrated and tired of how The W has handled this,” veteran guard Natasha Cloud emotionally shared. “It feels like a lack of respect for us and a refusal to adapt.”
Since the CBA expired on January 9, following unsuccessful negotiations and extensions, the union has prepared for a possible strike. The league released the 2026 schedule last week, maintaining the status quo, but has indefinitely halted free agency amid the ongoing uncertainty.
Currently, the WNBA has offered players 70% of net revenue share (around 15% of total league and team revenue) and a $5 million salary cap. However, the players are demanding nearly 30% of total revenue and a $10.5 million salary cap. They are also fighting to eliminate the “core” designation and preserve team-funded housing, which the league wants to cut.
Players like Thug Sutton are feeling the strain of the unknown situation but remain hopeful. “It’s concerning and uncertain, but we’re taking it day by day,” said Sutton, who signed a veteran minimum contract for 2025. Being part of Unrivaled has helped her cope mentally during this challenging period.
At a press conference Friday, Cloud passionately voiced the players’ stance. She noted the league has yet to present a new TV deal, which promises to bring more revenue. “If you saw the actual percentage they’re offering us, it would infuriate you,” Cloud said, before turning to cameras and stating, “We won’t budge until you do. The pressure is on the WNBA leadership to negotiate fairly and pay those who are generating profits.”
Despite the tension, Plum remains cautiously hopeful about reaching an agreement without delaying the season. “It’s important that we meet face to face,” she said. “Talking in person allows better understanding and opens the door for real progress.”
Fan Take: This development is crucial for WNBA fans because it highlights the players’ ongoing fight for fair compensation and improved working conditions, which could shape the league’s future stability and growth. A resolution would not only protect the 2026 season but signal progress toward equity in professional women’s sports.
