New York City, October 27, 2025
News Summary
WNBA players are in negotiations for fair wages and improved working conditions ahead of a critical deadline. As the current Collective Bargaining Agreement expires, players express concerns over potential work stoppages while advocating for compensation that reflects the league’s growing revenues. With stars and veterans alike highlighting disparities, tensions rise against league leadership, emphasizing the need for equity in women’s sports.
New York City – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) players are in high-stakes negotiations for fair wages and improved working conditions as they approach a critical deadline to establish a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The current CBA, signed in 2020 and meant to last until 2027, is set to expire on October 31, leading players to express concerns over a potential work stoppage, which could include a lockout or a strike.
The league is currently enjoying a significant surge in popularity, with sold-out crowds and record viewership over the last two years. New talents such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers have raised the profile of the league, while veterans like A’ja Wilson, Alyssa Thomas, and Napheesa Collier continue to command respect on the court. However, during this growth, players have pointed out that their compensation does not align with the increased revenues of the league.
Players currently receive only about 9% of the league’s income, with their salaries making up less than 7% of the overall revenue. In contrast, NBA players typically receive around 50% of basketball-related income. Nneka Ogwumike, president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), emphasized that players are advocating for equity-based compensation growth that reflects the financial progress of the league.
In addition to fair wages, players are demanding improvements in their working conditions. Their requests include charter travel for teams, enhanced player safety measures, and better support services. As negotiations have progressed, tensions have risen between players and league leadership, particularly with commissioner Cathy Engelbert. Criticism of Engelbert’s leadership has intensified, with players describing the current administration as ineffective and indifferent to player concerns.
The conflict has escalated following comments made by key players regarding Engelbert’s response to officiating inconsistencies. After the commissioner allegedly dismissed concerns raised by players, Napheesa Collier criticized league leadership, instigating solidarity among athletes who wore shirts stating “Pay Us What You Owe Us” at the 2025 All-Star Game. Engelbert faced public backlash, being booed by fans during award presentations at the WNBA Finals, signaling a notable change in fan sentiment towards her leadership.
Support for Collier’s remarks from fellow players like A’ja Wilson and Angel Reese has surged, as they echo concerns of financial disparities despite the league’s growing revenues, which are projected to reach around $350 million in the near future. Many players feel their contributions to the league’s success are not being adequately compensated.
As critical negotiation deadlines loom, players are exploring alternative opportunities in domestic leagues such as Athletes Unlimited and Unrivaled should a work stoppage occur, aiming to secure their earnings and maintain their competitive play. With only days remaining until the CBA expiration, the outcome of these negotiations will play a pivotal role in the future direction of the league.
If an agreement is not reached, it may lead to the first-ever lockout in WNBA history, an option that players have indicated they are willing to consider. The players’ commitment to seeking equity reflects a larger trend in women’s sports, where athletes are increasingly vocal about the need for fairness and recognition in their professional endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the key issues WNBA players are negotiating for?
WNBA players are negotiating for fair wages that reflect the league’s growth, improved working conditions including charter travel and safety measures, and equitable revenue sharing, similar to their male counterparts in the NBA.
What is the current status of the Collective Bargaining Agreement?
The current CBA was signed in 2020 and set to last until 2027, but players opted out due to compensation concerns. Negotiations are ongoing as the expiration date approaches on October 31.
What would happen if a new agreement is not reached?
If a new CBA is not established by the expiration date, it could result in the first lockout in WNBA history, with players potentially seeking alternatives to maintain their play and income.
Key Features of WNBA Negotiations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current CBA | Signed in 2020, set to expire on October 31, 2023. |
| Revenue Sharing | Players receive approximately 9% of league income, significantly less than their male counterparts. |
| Working Conditions | Players demand charter travel, enhanced safety measures, and support services. |
| Projected Revenue | League revenue could reach around $350 million soon. |
| Potential Work Stoppage | Players are prepared for a lockout or strike if negotiations fail. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WNBA Revenue Sharing Negotiations Intensify Ahead of Deadline
WNBA Players Union Challenges League on CBA Negotiations
WNBA Players Negotiate New Collective Bargaining Agreement
Phoenix Mercury Advance to WNBA Finals After Major Roster Overhaul
WNBA Faces Officiating Controversies and Leadership Challenges
Chicago Selected to Host the WNBA All-Star Game
WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement Negotiations Heat Up
Additional Resources
- New York Times: Adam Silver on WNBA Players’ Pay Increase
- Google Search: WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement
- ESPN: WNBA 2025 CBA Negotiations
- Wikipedia: WNBA
- Bleacher Report: Adam Silver on WNBA Player Increase
- CBS Sports: WNBA CBA Negotiations Update
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