The 2025 WNBA season delivered excitement from start to finish, with high-stakes matchups and standout performances keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Now, they are set to reap the rewards with a huge pay increase.
The finals series featured a showdown between the Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces. In dominant fashion, the Aces swept the Mercury 4-0 to claim their third WNBA championship, leaving little doubt about their place atop the league.
As the offseason begins, players are enjoying some downtime, recharging after a grueling campaign.
Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham recently shared her surprising choice for an offseason getaway, giving fans a glimpse into how top athletes unwind when not competing.
Her relaxation-focused approach highlights the importance of balancing intense professional commitments with personal well-being.
A pivotal moment for the WNBA
While players enjoy their offseason, attention is also turning toward the 2026 WNBA season, which promises significant changes.
The league recently unveiled a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) proposal that could reshape key aspects of player contracts and season logistics.
According to NBA Insider Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports, the league has removed team housing from its proposals submitted to the Women’s National Basketball Players Association.
The proposed CBA would include a $1 million base salary for players, along with a projected revenue-sharing agreement. Most players are expected to see earnings surpass $1.2 million, representing a major step forward in player compensation.
It comes after star players such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese complained publicly about the disparity in their salary and the amount of revenue they generate for the league.
However, the elimination of team housing marks a notable departure from previous agreements, and it could have significant implications for players who rely on league-provided accommodations during the season.
WNBA season changes on the horizon
In addition to adjustments in player compensation, the 2026 WNBA season could see a shift in scheduling.
Costabile reported that the league is considering starting training camp as early as mid-March. This earlier start could interfere with the NCAA tournament and potentially other leagues, such as Project B.
If implemented, it would also represent a departure from the current 44-game regular season, which runs from mid-May to early September.
Last season, the WNBA Finals concluded on October 10, indicating that the proposed changes could significantly extend the season for players and staff alike.
The potential extension and earlier start of the season are part of broader efforts to grow the league and increase visibility for women’s basketball.
By adjusting the schedule and compensation structure, the WNBA aims to create more opportunities for players to earn a fair wage while also expanding its fan base.
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