The WNBA and Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) missed the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline on Friday to agree on a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or extend the existing one, leaving both parties in a tense stalemate. Despite this setback, negotiations are expected to continue, aiming for a transformative deal that addresses long-standing issues. With the previous CBA now expired, the focus shifts to a proposed moratorium that could halt the initial stages of free agency, allowing teams to make qualifying offers and core designations to players. This proposal, introduced by the league a few days prior and finalized late Friday night, is currently under review by the union. WNBA front offices have been instructed to prepare for extending qualifying offers and core designations under the expired agreement, potentially starting as early as Sunday and continuing until January 20th. This development raises concerns among players, who are unlikely to sign contracts while a new salary system with substantial compensation increases is still being negotiated. All but two of the league's veterans are free agents this offseason, anticipating a new CBA. The expiration of the old agreement opens the door to a potential work stoppage, either a strike by the players or a lockout by the owners. However, sources indicate that the league has not considered locking out the players. The WNBPA expressed disappointment in a statement, accusing the WNBA and its teams of failing to compromise and undervaluing player contributions. They emphasize their commitment to securing a transformative new CBA, highlighting pay equity as non-negotiable and urging the league to address this long-overdue issue. The league, in response, acknowledges the importance of building upon the momentum of its unprecedented popularity and growth. Their priority is a deal that significantly increases player salaries, enhances the overall player experience, and supports the long-term growth of the league for current and future generations. However, significant differences remain between the two sides on key issues, particularly revenue sharing. The league's proposed system would give players an average of 70% of net revenue over the agreement's lifetime, with uncapped revenue sharing, higher maximum salaries, and increased average and minimum salaries. In contrast, the WNBPA's late November proposal, obtained by ESPN, suggested a projected salary cap of approximately $12.5 million in 2026, an eightfold increase from 2025. This proposal also included an average player salary of around $1 million and a maximum salary of $2.5 million. Recent union proposals have aimed for a salary cap closer to $10.5 million, with players receiving about 30% of gross revenue. The negotiations highlight the complex challenges in achieving a mutually beneficial agreement, with both parties striving for a transformative deal that addresses player compensation, salary structures, and the league's growth.
