Fortunately, a positive agreement has been reached between the players and the WNBA. After months of negotiations and breakdowns, both sides found a path toward a collective bargaining agreement that benefits everyone involved.
Although there is still work to be done, as the terms must be finalized and ratified, there is now a green light for the 2026 season to take place. This had been a major concern for the league, the players, and the fans.
The WNBA will have a 2026 season
Fortunately, commissioner Cathy Engelbert has confirmed that the 2026 season will begin as planned on May 8, 2026. Training camps are scheduled to open on April 19.
We just had some congratulations with each other.”… “It’s been, obviously, a process, but we’re very proud to be leading women’s sports. These players are amazing, and we’re going to have an amazing 30th season tipping off in May.
Engelbert said in a statement.
Players react to the new collective bargaining agreement
The most recognizable face in the WNBA, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations.
Speaking from experience, players like me are going to be the ones that I think feel it the most, and that’s what I think we’re all super proud of, because that’s what we set out from the beginning, was making sure every player felt the change in the CBA, and that’s exactly what has happened.
Meanwhile, New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart also shared her thoughts on the development.
The deal is going to be transformational. It’s going to build and help create a system where everybody is getting exactly what they deserve and more, from on-the-court and off-the-court aspects. Just excited that we can tell our fans that we’re going to be back.
Brianna Turner also had something to say on the matter.
I truly didn’t recognize the dedication and time it takes to build relationships and truly listen to the needs and wants of union members. This process was so eye-opening to me, (and) it’s been a true honor to help advocate for the past, present, and future of the WNBA.
For the Seattle Storm guard, the situation was clear.
And that’s how you stand on business.
Erica Wheeler was another player who took to social media to express her satisfaction with the outcome.
Alexa, play we gone be alright by Kendrick.
All of this makes it clear that players had been waiting for this resolution to begin preparing for the 2026 season.
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