Breanna Stewart, serving as a WNBPA vice president, called out NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for not participating in WNBA CBA negotiations, challenging his claims of behind-the-scenes involvement.
During All Star Saturday on Feb. 14, Silver stated he had been “very involved behind the scenes” in the negotiations, but players say they have not witnessed his presence at any meaningful discussions.
Speaking before Unrivaled’s semifinal games in Brooklyn, Stewart said Silver’s absence is apparent, signaling frustration from the players who are waiting for leadership at the table to help push talks forward.
“Adam has not been at the table in any of the in person or Zoom meetings,” Stewart said. “I don’t know what’s what else is happening behind the scenes, but from our perspective, we haven’t seen them.”
The WNBA reportedly informed teams in a virtual meeting that a new CBA must be in place by March 10, to allow time for free agency, expansion drafts, the rookie draft, and training camps before the 2026 season kicks off on May 8.
Nearly 17 months after opting out of the previous agreement, the WNBA and WNBPA are still negotiating a new CBA, aiming to balance fair compensation with league growth, while avoiding a lockout that could delay the start of the season.
Revenue sharing is the biggest point of contention, with the WNBPA seeking a larger percentage of gross revenue and added support for travel and housing, while the league’s proposal is based on net revenue, leaving a significant gap to reconcile.
Reports indicate parts of the player leadership are willing to consider a strike if negotiations falter, but most emphasize the importance of reaching an agreement before the deadline to protect the season from disruption, but the Union VP Kelsey Plum highlighted players’ desire to compete.
Unrivaled basketball fans take stance against WNBA
Unrivaled’s semifinals at Barclays Center, home of Stewart’s Liberty, saw her lead Mist BC to a 73 69 win, scoring 23 points with eight rebounds and five assists, while fans voiced support for players negotiating the CBA.
The sold-out crowd of 18,261 fans used the platform to show backing for athletes and labor demands, chanting “Pay the Players” and emphasizing the importance of fair compensation in women’s professional basketball.
The WNBPA seeks 26% of gross revenue, while the league proposes more than 70% of net revenue, equating to under 15% of gross revenue, with salaries rising to nearly $1.3 million in 2026 and $2 million by 2031.
Fans are voicing support off the court, chanting for fair pay and conditions at recent events, showing public awareness and adding pressure on the league to meet players’ demands and reach a timely resolution.
And as the current CBA expires March 10, creating the possibility of a strike if no agreement is reached, the pressure is only continuing to grow on the WNBA league officials.
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