For many, their demands may appear ambitious, but the reality is that they are simply seeking better salary conditions for the coming seasons, ensuring that both stars and rookies can aspire to fair pay that matches their value.
That is why, during the NBA All-Star Game, Chris Paul, the former president of the NBPA, and current vice president Jaylen Brown were asked to offer advice to the WNBA players who are currently in talks to improve their collective bargaining agreement.
In response, they sought to deliver a message of unity from the union, while also making it clear that every player has a personal perspective, even though they stand together as one when necessary.
They also sent a clear message to the women, telling them they must always ask for what they know they are worth, and that is why:
Get what you deserve.
It is worth remembering that the players’ union remains firm in its demand to include a percentage of gross revenue in the new revenue-sharing model within the collective bargaining agreement, while the WNBA has offered them a larger percentage of net revenue instead.
Negotiations stalled between the WNBA and the players’ union
At the moment, it remains unclear whether there will even be a 2026 WNBA season, as both sides appear stuck in negotiations with no immediate path toward a resolution.
The players are asking for higher salaries, basing their argument on the league’s growth in recent years. Since Caitlin Clark arrived, viewership levels have increased significantly.
The excitement surrounding the league’s top star has filled arenas and driven more fans to watch games on television or through streaming platforms that broadcast them.
That is why the players do not want to concede even a fraction of their demands for better pay and improved revenue distribution for everyone in the league, whether they are established veterans or rookies just beginning their careers. They want a much more equitable system.
For now, some players have remained active in Unrivaled, a league that offers better salaries and more opportunities during the offseason, allowing them to stay competitive and in constant action.
This offseason will be decisive for many players who had been expected to leave their current teams and potentially sign with other franchises. However, with everything at a standstill, their futures remain uncertain as negotiations continue without a clear breakthrough, leaving the entire league in a tense waiting period.
Read the full article here
