The Women's National Basketball Players Association sent a new WNBPA proposal to the WNBA late Friday evening. This move comes as both sides push toward a new collective bargaining agreement before a key March 10 deadline. Players made changes on revenue sharing and housing to bridge the gap. The talks aim to set terms for the growing league ahead of the 2026 season.
Key Takeaways
- WNBPA dropped revenue share ask from 27.5% to 26% of gross revenue, saving nearly $100 million over the deal.
- Housing rules eased: players at 75% of max salary no longer guaranteed team housing in later years.
- Developmental player service limit now at six years, down from no limit.
- March 10 deadline looms; no deal could delay 2026 season starting May 8.
Background
The WNBA and its players have negotiated a new CBA for over 16 months now. The current deal ends after the 2025 season. Record viewership and attendance last year put pressure on both sides to agree on fair terms. The league added teams in Portland and Toronto for 2026. A big TV deal boosts revenue expectations.
Players wore shirts saying 'Pay Us What You Owe Us' at the All-Star Game. Stars like Caitlin Clark called these talks the biggest moment in league history. Breanna Stewart, a top New York Liberty player, spoke out this week. She said revenue sharing is the main holdup.
"The one thing is what we really can’t agree on, and that’s the revenue-sharing model," Stewart said.
The WNBA points to expenses like better facilities, charter flights, and hotels. Players argue gross revenue before those costs should fund bigger paychecks. Last season's average salary sat at $120,000. The supermax topped out at $249,000.
League proposals project average pay hitting $540,000 in 2026 and $780,000 by 2031 with revenue sharing. But players want guarantees based on total income, not after expenses. And the clock ticks. The league told teams and players Monday: finish by March 10 or risk the schedule.
Key Details
The new WNBPA proposal lowers the revenue share to 26% of gross revenue over the deal's life. That's down from 27.5% in their February 17 offer. Year one salary cap stays at $9.5 million. Sources say this change cuts about $100 million from player payouts.
Housing got tweaks too. Earlier, players wanted teams to provide it for early deal years. Later, no obligation for those at 80% of max salary on multiyear deals with full protection. Now? They dropped the multiyear part. Threshold fell to 75% of max.
Developmental Players and Service Limits
Teams get two developmental spots each under the new setup. Players pushed for no service limit before. Now it's six years. The league wants four or five based on minutes. Back-and-forth continues here.
The WNBA's February 20 counter offered housing for all in 2026. It phases out later. Minimum salary players and rookies get one-bedrooms in 2027-2028. Developmental players get studios through the deal. Salary cap starts at $5.65 million in 2026, up from $1.5 million in 2025. It grows with revenue.
Max salaries could hit $1.3 million in 2026, near $2 million by 2031. But the league sticks to over 70% of net revenue for players. That's under 15% of gross. The union's prior plan drew fire. League said it caused $460 million in team losses. Players counter it's still profitable.
Brianna Turner, union treasurer, noted 2025 licensing revenue hit $9.25 million. That triggered sharing. She says it shows player value. Agents sent a letter asking for more transparency. Players held a testy meeting this week.
Leaders plan a survey on the league's latest offer. Free agency waits on this deal. Movement could be big with higher pay. The 2026 season tips May 8. Delays hurt everyone.
What This Means
Concessions signal players want a deal. But gaps remain wide on revenue models. Gross vs. net defines the fight. Gross means before expenses. Net after. League upgraded operations cost money. Players see total pot growing fast.
2025 drew 2.5 million fans over 226 games with 13 teams. 2026 has 15. TV deal locks in cash. No CBA means no free agency. No raises. Season at risk. Stewart called 2026 historic if it happens.
"The 2026 season will be a historic one if we’re able to have it," she added.
Teams scout talent now. Diego Pavia stays defiant at NFL Combine amid his own battles, but WNBA eyes its stars. Higher pay draws more. Like top clubs scout Genk trio in soccer, WNBA free agency could shake rosters.
March 10 term sheet target. Miss it, and schedules slip. Fans wait. Players hold out for fair share. League guards bottom line. Both need wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main disagreement in WNBA CBA talks?
Revenue sharing. Players want a cut of gross revenue before expenses. League offers over 70% of net after costs.
Could the 2026 WNBA season be delayed?
Yes. League set March 10 deadline for term sheet. No deal risks May 8 start.
How much do WNBA players earn now?
Average $120,000 in 2025. Supermax $249,000. Proposals aim much higher by 2031.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main disagreement in WNBA CBA talks?
Revenue sharing. Players want a cut of gross revenue before expenses. League offers over 70% of net after costs.
Could the 2026 WNBA season be delayed?
Yes. League set March 10 deadline for term sheet. No deal risks May 8 start.
How much do WNBA players earn now?
Average $120,000 in 2025. Supermax $249,000. Proposals aim much higher by 2031.
