What's happened
The WNBA and players' union agreed to a six-week extension of their current CBA until January 9, as negotiations over revenue sharing, salaries, and benefits continue. The league's latest proposal includes a salary cap of $5 million in 2026, with max player earnings exceeding $1.2 million through revenue sharing. Key issues remain unresolved.
What's behind the headline?
The ongoing negotiations highlight a fundamental tension between league management and players over revenue sharing and salary structures. The league's latest proposal aims to tie player earnings to league revenue growth, which could significantly increase maximum salaries to over $1.2 million, compared to previous caps around $850,000. This shift indicates a recognition of the league's rising valuation but also underscores the players' demand for a fairer share of the league's financial success. The extension suggests both sides are committed to reaching an agreement, but key issues like revenue sharing models and benefits remain unresolved. The outcome will likely influence the league's financial stability and player satisfaction, impacting the sport's growth and competitiveness.
What the papers say
The New York Post reports that the latest proposal includes a maximum salary of $1 million in 2026, with total earnings exceeding $1.2 million through revenue sharing, and a salary cap rising to $5 million. ESPN notes the league's push for a revenue-growth tied model, contrasting with the union's demand for a revenue-based salary structure. AP News highlights the ongoing extension and the importance of resolving revenue sharing and benefits, with both sides having the option to terminate the extension with 48 hours' notice. The articles collectively reveal a negotiation landscape marked by cautious optimism but persistent disagreements over financial models and player compensation.
How we got here
Negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) began earlier this year, with the league proposing a significant increase in salary cap and revenue sharing. The players' union has pushed for a model tied to league revenue, along with improved benefits and roster expansion. The current CBA was set to expire at the end of November, prompting the extension to avoid a work stoppage and allow more time for negotiations.
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