The WNBA is currently undergoing a transformative offseason, marked by crucial negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the Women's National Basketball Player's Association (WNBPA) [5]. These negotiations focus on critical issues such as improved facilities, charter flights, and, most significantly, revenue sharing [2].
CBA Talks and Key Issues
WNBA players are pushing for a revised revenue-sharing model that allows them to benefit from the league's growth [7]. Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally, a WNBPA player representative, emphasized the importance of this, stating that the current CBA structure could lead to a decrease in players' salaries relative to the league's overall financial expansion [7]. The outcome of these negotiations is critical, with the possibility of a work stoppage looming if an agreement isn't reached [8].
Collier has emphasized that failing to make progress in CBA talks would be detrimental to women's sports [2]. The negotiations also touch upon opportunities for players to gain more playing time during the offseason [6]. Unlike the NBA's G-League, the WNBA lacks a formal developmental program, making overseas leagues and opportunities like Athletes Unlimited valuable for players like Fever rookies Makayla Timpson and Bree Hall [6]. Timpson is currently playing in the Czech Republic, while Hall is participating in Athletes Unlimited [6].
Free Agency and the Future
Almost every player in the WNBA is entering free agency, adding another layer of complexity to this offseason [5]. This presents teams with unique challenges as they navigate player acquisitions and retention under the new CBA [5]. One insider noted that there has been some progress in recent bargaining sessions, suggesting that a complete impasse has not been reached [8]. The coming days are crucial as both sides aim to find common ground [8]. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's role is being closely watched as the deadline approaches [9].
Meanwhile, the stacked 2026 WNBA Draft is already posing a challenge for teams, as they strategize for the future [3]. Lexie Hull believes some WNBA players are jealous of Caitlin Clark and the Fever [1]. Kelsey Plum sought a trade from Las Vegas after seven seasons [4]. Despite season-ending injuries, including Caitlin Clark being limited to 13 games, Mitchell led them to the franchise’s first playoff series win since 2015 [4].
TL;DR
- WNBA players and the league are in intense negotiations for a new CBA, focusing on revenue sharing and improved conditions [5, 7].
- The possibility of a work stoppage looms if an agreement isn't reached by the deadline [8].
- Nearly every WNBA player is a free agent, adding complexity to team strategies this offseason [5].
- The 2026 WNBA Draft is anticipated to be exceptionally competitive, presenting unique challenges for teams [3].