What's happened
The WNBA and players' union failed to agree on a new collective bargaining agreement before the January 15 deadline, leading to a status quo period and a freeze on free agency activities. Negotiations focus on salary caps, revenue sharing, and player compensation, with both sides far apart.
What's behind the headline?
The current deadlock in WNBA negotiations underscores the deep divide over revenue sharing and salary structures. The league's offer of 70% of net revenue contrasts sharply with the union's demand for a gross revenue share, revealing fundamental disagreements on how profits should be distributed. This impasse is likely to delay the start of free agency, potentially compressing the offseason and affecting team roster planning. The league's proposed salary increases, including a maximum of $1.3 million and an average salary over $530,000, represent a significant improvement but are still contested. The union's push for a higher gross revenue percentage aims to secure more equitable pay, especially for star players. The prolonged negotiations highlight the broader challenge of balancing league profitability with fair player compensation, and the outcome will influence the league's competitiveness and growth prospects. If unresolved, the dispute risks further delaying the season start, impacting players, teams, and fans alike.
What the papers say
The AP News articles provide detailed insights into the ongoing negotiations, highlighting the league's proposals and the union's demands. AP reports that the league's offer includes a revenue share of over 70%, with salary caps rising substantially, while the union advocates for a gross revenue split of around 30%. The articles emphasize the deadlock's impact on offseason activities and the potential for a condensed schedule if a deal isn't reached soon. The Japan Times adds context by noting the history of negotiations and the importance of reaching an agreement to avoid further disruptions. Overall, the coverage illustrates a clear picture of a league at a crossroads, with significant implications for the future of women's professional basketball.
How we got here
The WNBA and the Women's National Basketball Players' Association (WNBPA) have been negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) since late 2025. The current agreement expired on January 15, after multiple extensions, with negotiations centered on salary increases, revenue sharing, and offseason rules. The league's recent proposals include significant salary hikes and revenue sharing, but the union seeks a different revenue split, prolonging the deadlock. This impasse impacts offseason activities, including free agency and draft preparations, and reflects ongoing tensions over player compensation and league revenue distribution.
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