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WNBA CBA Talks: Players Aim for "Transformative" Deal; Expansion in Focus
Key Points at a Glance
- The WNBA and WNBPA have initiated talks for a new CBA to begin in 2026.
- Players aim for a “transformative” deal that reflects the league’s growth.
- The current CBA, signed in 2020, set records for viewership and revenue.
- The league has expanded to 12 teams with more on the way.
Players’ Priorities in New CBA
- Salaries and compensation: Players want salary increases and a more flexible salary structure that shares growth with the league.
- Charter trips: Players seek to encode charter trips, which were implemented last season.
- Prioritization rules: Players want changes to the prioritization clause, allowing international players more flexibility.
Owners’ Perspectives and Potential Changes
- The owners are expected to push for retaining prioritization rules, strict salary caps, and annual draft format.
- Possible changes could include realistic income distribution clauses and improved treatment of injured players.
What’s Next?
- Negotiations are expected to conclude with enough time to start the 2026 season without disrupting the current schedule.
- Both parties are preparing for potential delays, though neither wants a work stoppage.
“We anticipate that the negotiations will end with time to begin the 2026 season. … Plan for unforeseen events is something that we cannot ignore, but it is not something we want or wait.”
– Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA president
Expand Your Knowledge
Did you know?
The WNBA’s first CBA was signed in 1999, with the second one reached in 2003 just before the tip-off.
Explore more WNBA news and updates
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