WNBA fans may soon see significant changes within the league, as the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has officially opted out of the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
The decision, which came one day after the New York Liberty secured the WNBA championship, sets the stage for a new round of negotiations between the league and its players.
WNBA players take a stand against league
Although the current CBA, agreed to in 2020, was set to run until 2027, the union’s vote to opt out brings the possibility of a work stoppage if an agreement is not reached by the end of the 2025 season.
While fans won’t see any immediate changes-the current agreement remains in place for the 2024 season-both sides have roughly a year to finalize a new deal before potential disruptions arise.
The decision to opt out follows a historic season for the WNBA.
Viewership and attendance hit record highs, driven by newcomer stars like rookies Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink.
However, despite this surge in popularity, financial issues continue to challenge the league.
It is estimated that the WNBA will face a $40 million loss this season, though a new media rights deal kicking in by 2026 is expected to substantially boost revenue.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed optimism in reaching a new deal soon, highlighting the league’s commitment to continued growth.
“We look forward to working together with the players and the WNBPA on a new CBA that is fair for all and lays the foundation for growth and success for years to come,” Engelbert said.
WNBA players’ priorities for a new CBA
The WNBPA’s decision to opt out wasn’t made lightly.
Players have voiced concerns about compensation, benefits, and overall working conditions.
A key issue is the disparity in revenue sharing between WNBA and NBA players.
While NBA players receive 50% of all basketball-related revenue, WNBA players currently only receive a 50-50 split of incremental revenue, which is calculated beyond a specific target, making their share significantly smaller.
Nneka Ogwumike, Seattle Storm star and president of the WNBPA, emphasized that the opt-out is not just about paychecks.
“It’s about claiming our rightful share of the business we’ve built, improving working conditions, and securing a future where the success we create benefits today’s players and the generations to come.”
Players are also advocating for increased salaries, better retirement benefits, family planning support, and consistent professional standards across the league.
Negotiations are expected to address the concerns raised by the players, while also balancing the league’s financial health as it prepares to welcome new expansion teams, such as the Golden State Valkyries in 2025, and Portland and Toronto in 2026.
While the threat of a league shutdown looms, many remain hopeful that an agreement will be reached.
Both players and league officials have expressed a shared desire to build on the WNBA’s recent momentum, ensuring the league’s growth continues without interruption.
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