The responsibility now lies with the players’ association as the WNBA presented a counteroffer for a new collective bargaining agreement to the National Women’s Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) on Friday, according to sources confirmed to the Post. Since submitting their proposal on Christmas morning, the WNBPA has been awaiting an official response from the league.
Earlier this week, several members of the association’s executive committee, including WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike, met in person with league representatives on Monday, hoping to resolve the deadlock in CBA talks that have stalled recently. Instead of directly replying to the association’s proposal, which was submitted about six weeks ago, the WNBA released a presentation highlighting some of the enhancements and benefits it has already offered in the new contract.
Key proposed changes include a supermax base salary starting at $1.1 million in 2026, potentially increasing to $1.8 million by 2030. The average base salary for players is expected to jump from about $102,000 in 2025 to $465,000 the following season. Additional league improvements include more guaranteed contracts, two developmental player spots per team, higher performance bonuses, and salary cap exemptions for players who are pregnant or have post-season injuries.
A major sticking point remains revenue sharing. The players are requesting around 30% of total revenue with a $10.5 million salary cap, while the WNBA previously offered a 70% share of net revenue—equating to roughly 15% of total league and team revenue—and a $5 million salary cap. It’s unclear if these figures have shifted in the league’s latest proposal.
Sources mentioned that the league didn’t feel the union’s late-December offer warranted a formal response as it was largely similar to prior proposals. However, this perspective—that the WNBPA’s recent proposal was too ambitious—was reportedly not communicated directly to the players before Monday’s meeting.
With the 2026 season set to begin on May 8, both parties believe there is ample time to reach an agreement. Yet, any protracted negotiations beyond this month could delay the season’s start. The two-team expansion draft, free agency, and college draft are also contingent upon approval of the new CBA.
Ogwumike expressed optimism, telling The Associated Press that a deal could be reached swiftly if both sides agree on revenue sharing. “We emphasized that if we succeed in this, everything else can be done,” she said.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for WNBA fans because the outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact player salaries, benefits, and the overall growth of the league. Reaching a fair agreement promises not only enhanced livelihoods for players but also the potential to elevate the sport’s profile and competitiveness in the years ahead.
