What's happened
The WNBA and players' union are close to missing a deadline for a new collective bargaining agreement, risking a delay in free agency and potential work stoppage. Negotiations focus on salaries and revenue sharing, with both sides far apart on key issues as the current CBA expires today.
What's behind the headline?
The negotiations reveal a significant divide over revenue sharing and salary structures. The league proposes a maximum salary of $1 million in 2026, with potential growth to nearly $2 million, and offers players over 70% of net revenue. Conversely, the union counters with a proposal for 30% of gross revenue, which would likely result in lower earnings for players. The failure to reach an agreement risks delaying free agency, which could start as early as mid-January, and may lead to a work stoppage, including a strike authorized by the players' union. The high participation in strike votes indicates strong player resolve, but both sides remain committed to negotiating in good faith. The outcome will significantly impact the league's financial future and player livelihoods.
What the papers say
AP News reports that the league's latest offer includes a guaranteed maximum salary of $1 million, with revenue sharing potentially increasing player earnings. The AP highlights the substantial salary increases proposed, from current averages of $120,000 to over $530,000 in 2026. The NY Post emphasizes the ongoing impasse, noting that neither side expects an agreement before the deadline and that a work stoppage remains a possibility. Both articles underscore the importance of revenue sharing and salary structure disagreements, with the union advocating for a larger share of gross revenue and the league favoring net revenue. The AP details the league's proposal for increased minimum salaries and star player pay, while the NY Post discusses the union's strike authorization and the potential for a condensed offseason.
How we got here
The WNBA's current CBA is set to expire just before midnight on January 10, 2026. Negotiations have been ongoing for over a year, with the league and players' union seeking to reach a new agreement that increases player compensation and addresses revenue sharing. Previous extensions have kept the league operating under the old terms, but a new deal is critical for the upcoming season.
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