New York, NY, October 14, 2025
News Summary
WNBA players are pushing for better salaries and equitable revenue sharing as negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement heat up. With the current CBA set to expire on October 31, tensions rise over the need for a ‘transformational’ agreement. Players are dissatisfied with the proposed salary structures and are advocating for changes that reflect the league’s financial growth. As the deadline approaches, concerns about a potential lockout and the pressures of impending expansions add urgency to negotiations.
New York, NY – Tensions are escalating between the WNBA and its players as the expiration date for the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) approaches on October 31, 2025. With crucial issues still unresolved, both parties are under pressure to reach a “transformational” agreement that meets the demands of the players while aligning with the growing business of the league.
The key sticking points in these negotiations include increased player salaries and revenue sharing arrangements that reflect the league’s financial growth. WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) President Nneka Ogwumike has emphasized that players want any revenue sharing agreement to evolve alongside the league’s developments. This sentiment is echoed by Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally, who raised concerns about how current proposals seem to exclude players from benefiting from the league’s expansion.
Under the current CBA, player salaries are capped with scheduled increases of only 3% annually, which many players argue is insufficient given the league’s increasing franchise valuations. For example, the value of the Las Vegas Aces skyrocketed from $2 million in 2021 to $310 million in just two years. Meanwhile, the WNBA’s financial health was severely affected during the 2020 season due to pandemic-related restrictions, causing challenges in meeting financial goals.
In negotiations, the WNBA presented an August proposal which included a supermax salary of $249,244. However, it maintains the existing salary structure, which players view as inadequate and uninspired. Recent estimates indicate that supermax salaries could rise to about $850,000, while the veteran minimum could reach around $300,000. Players advocate for a salary framework directly tied to business revenue growth, opposing the current model which they believe understates their contributions.
Within the players’ ranks, discontent with league management has surfaced, with some expressing that the current leadership is failing to prioritize the needs of the players. Concerns about a potential lockout loom as negotiations show signs of stagnation, marking a possible first in WNBA history. Players are increasingly dissatisfied with the communication from league officials regarding negotiations, causing many to feel out of the loop.
The urgency for an agreement is further fueled by impending expansions and a major free agency period anticipated for 2026. With congressional support surfacing for the players, advocacy for equitable treatment and fair compensation is gaining traction. Additionally, the new media rights deal worth approximately $2.2 billion can be reassessed after three years, situating it as a pivotal element of the ongoing discussions.
The players’ unified front highlights their common goal of a revised agreement that adjusts both revenue sharing and salary structures to reflect the league’s growth. With collective voices calling for significant change in the negotiation landscape, the future of the WNBA hangs in the balance as both sides strive to reach a decisive conclusion before the looming deadline.
Key Negotiation Issues
- Player Salaries: Current CBA limits salary growth to 3% annually.
- Revenue Sharing: Players seek a system that grows with league revenue.
- Leadership Critique: Criticism directed at WNBA management regarding bargaining practices.
- Potential Lockout: The first in WNBA history if negotiations stall.
- Franchise Growth: Rapid increases in team valuations affecting negotiations.
Players’ Perspectives
- Desire for compensation structures connected to league business growth.
- Concerns over management’s approach to current proposals.
- Calls for transparency and equitable treatment in negotiations.
Future Implications
- New media rights deal may influence salary negotiations.
- Impending free agency period and league expansions heighten urgency for a resolution.
- A unified player front indicating a collective demand for change in leadership.
FAQ
What is the current status of WNBA negotiations?
The WNBA and players are in negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, with key issues like salary increases and revenue sharing still unresolved.
When does the current CBA expire?
The current CBA is set to expire on October 31, 2025.
What are the main concerns for players?
Players are primarily concerned about inadequate salary structures, the lack of revenue sharing that grows with the league, and dissatisfaction with league management.
Chart: Key Features of the WNBA CBA Negotiation
| Feature | Current Status | Player Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Player Salaries | Fixed cap increases of 3% annually | Growth tied to league revenue |
| Revenue Sharing | Undefined structure | Seek equitable sharing with league growth |
| Franchise Valuation | Significant increases (e.g., Aces from $2M to $310M) | Align salaries to reflect franchise successes |
| Management Leadership | Criticism from players | Call for accountability in negotiations |
| Potential Lockout | Concerns if negotiations do not progress | Avoid unprecedented work stoppages |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WNBA Players Demand Fairer Salaries Amid CBA Negotiations
Additional Resources
- ESPN: WNBA CBA Negotiations
- Wikipedia: WNBA
- USA Today: What’s Next for WNBA CBA
- Google Search: WNBA CBA negotiations
- New York Times: WNBA CBA Work Stoppage
- Google Scholar: WNBA CBA
- CBS Sports: WNBA CBA Showdown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: WNBA
- Fox News: Charles Barkley Warning to WNBA Players
- Google News: WNBA CBA negotiations
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