What's happened
The WNBA is in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement, with proposals including higher minimum salaries over $220,000 and an average of more than $460,000. The league is also expanding to 15 teams, with details of the expansion draft pending. The talks aim for a transformational deal before the 2026 All-Star Game.
What's behind the headline?
The ongoing negotiations signal a pivotal moment for the WNBA, with the league aiming to significantly boost player salaries and benefits. The proposed minimum salary of over $220,000 and an average of over $460,000 represent substantial increases, likely to attract and retain top talent. The expansion to 15 teams indicates a strategic move to grow the league's footprint, but the lack of details on the expansion draft could pose challenges. The league's leadership, including Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, is optimistic about reaching a 'transformational' agreement, which could set new standards for women's professional sports. This deal, if finalized, will likely influence future negotiations and the league's financial stability, impacting players, teams, and fans alike.
What the papers say
The AP News articles from November 19 and 23, 2025, provide detailed insights into the league's salary proposals and ongoing negotiations. The reports highlight the league's efforts to secure a lucrative deal that benefits players and supports league growth. The articles also note the league's expansion to 15 teams and the pending details of the expansion draft, emphasizing the league's strategic growth plans. The coverage underscores the importance of the upcoming CBA agreement for the league's future, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressing optimism about a positive outcome. These sources collectively paint a picture of a league at a critical juncture, balancing financial ambitions with growth ambitions.
How we got here
The WNBA's current CBA expired in October 2025, prompting ongoing negotiations. The league and players union are seeking significant salary increases, revenue sharing, and improved benefits. The league's expansion to 15 teams this season, including Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, is part of broader growth efforts, though expansion draft details are yet to be announced.
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Catherine "Cathy" Engelbert is an American business executive and Commissioner of the Women's National Basketball Association. Before joining the WNBA, she had been with Deloitte for 33 years, including as its first female CEO from 2015–2019.