With the 2026 season fast approaching, both the WNBA and the WNBPA are running short on time as they remain divided over crucial collective bargaining agreement (CBA) issues. Despite these differences, both sides agree on one critical point: neither wants to miss any games. Although no formal breakthrough has been made in the CBA talks, a shared understanding has gradually developed during ongoing negotiations. Basketball analyst Sabrina Merchant recently pointed out that a work stoppage would be counterproductive for both parties.
Merchant explained, “I don’t think either side truly wants to miss game time. Historically, one party might cut or cancel a season to resolve major disagreements, but here, no one believes missing games will help their position.” This viewpoint highlights how this negotiation differs from previous sports labor disputes. Canceling games would instantly damage ticket sales, broadcasting revenue, sponsorships, and the league’s growth momentum—a risk neither the league nor players are willing to take after years of steady progress.
Even if a deal was struck immediately, it wouldn’t guarantee an immediate season start, as important matters like retirement benefits, housing standards, and development rosters still require agreement and implementation. With the regular season set to begin May 8, the schedule is tightening, and pressure is mounting on league operations, team strategies, and player preparations.
In an effort to push talks forward, the WNBA submitted a new CBA proposal to the players association roughly a week after their early February meeting, according to USA Today Sports. While details remain undisclosed, this move signals increased involvement from the league office. However, the central sticking point—revenue sharing—persists. Players are demanding about 30% of the league’s total revenue, and until progress is made here, uncertainty about the season’s start remains.
WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike has clearly stated the players’ position: “Our players want to play 100% this year. We want the season. Once we settle revenue sharing, everything else can be resolved.” Though a strike is theoretically possible, Ogwumike emphasized that the union is not rushing into that step, noting, “We are negotiating in good faith and are not setting a strike date.”
Meanwhile, some Major League Baseball events are postponed amid ongoing negotiations, and several key WNBA offseason activities—including expansion drafts and free agency—are on hold pending CBA clarity. Both sides currently maintain good faith talks anchored by a mutual desire to avoid canceling games. Nevertheless, their agreement on other issues remains limited. A breakdown, especially on revenue sharing, could have consequences extending well beyond this season. The coming weeks are critical as the league aims to solidify its future foundation.
Fan Take: This negotiation milestone matters greatly for WNBA fans because it affects the continuity and growth of the league they love. A resolution that preserves the season and ensures fair revenue sharing could propel the WNBA into a stronger future, building on its rising popularity and providing players the support they deserve.
