Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were among dozens of WNBA stars who took part in crucial collective bargaining agreement (CBA) discussions on Thursday in Indianapolis, ahead of All-Star weekend festivities. Roughly 40 players, including top names from the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, gathered to negotiate terms of a new CBA, with hopes of improving league salaries, revenue sharing, and working conditions.
The meeting marked the first large-scale session since December, following players’ decision to opt out of the current CBA last October. Talks are aimed at reaching an agreement that would offer a more equitable salary structure, increased benefits, and a softened salary cap. Despite being early in their professional careers, both Reese and Clark have emerged as prominent voices in the conversation.
Clark and Reese stand united in growing WNBA influence
Reese, 23, has frequently voiced concerns about pay and player treatment in the league. While she and Clark have shared a high-profile rivalry on the court, including heated exchanges in college and the pros, they now find themselves aligned in off-court advocacy.
Clark, who will miss Sunday’s All-Star Game due to injury, explained her decision to participate in the meetings despite not holding an official representative role.
“Obviously, this is a very important time for our league, and where it’s going to continue to grow,” Clark said. “Although I’m not our team rep or on the committee, I’m still trying to understand and engage as much as possible.”
WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike expressed optimism, saying face-to-face talks often lead to faster progress. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert echoed the sentiment, describing the potential deal as “transformational” and emphasizing the need for sustainability.
With both rising stars and veterans aligned, momentum is building toward a deal that could reshape the WNBA’s future.
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