WNBA Players Express Frustration Over Unproductive CBA Discussions with League

In Indianapolis, WNBA Players Seek Progress in CBA Talks

During All-Star Weekend, WNBA players expressed mixed feelings after meeting with commissioner Cathy Engelbert and team owners. While they felt the talks were a “missed opportunity,” there’s still hope for more fruitful discussions as they work toward a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Over 40 players attended the meeting, following the union’s decision to opt out of the current agreement established in 2020. Players aim to have a new CBA in place by October, especially with an expansion draft looming for new teams in Portland and Toronto set for 2026.

Napheesa Collier, captain of the All-Star team and a player for the Minnesota Lynx, highlighted the urgency, saying, “We’re on a time crunch. No one wants a lockout.” She emphasized the need for firm negotiation despite the pressure for quicker talks.

Union president Nneka Ogwumike of the Seattle Storm noted the historic turnout but wished for more productive outcomes from the meeting. Both sides seemed to agree on several points, especially regarding family planning and retirement benefits, but they remain far apart on key issues like revenue sharing, salary structure, and team commitment.

A pressing issue is the prioritization of the WNBA over other leagues where players often earn additional income during the off-season. In recent years, leagues like Unrivaled and Athletes Unlimited have emerged, creating competition for player commitments. Gabby Williams of the Seattle Storm argued that if the WNBA wants exclusivity, it must offer better salaries.

Players entered the discussions concerned about the league’s slow response to union proposals. Ogwumike and her team had submitted their initial offer five months prior, and responses from the league were delayed. Kelsey Plum of the Los Angeles Sparks stressed the importance of revenue sharing, asserting, “Rev sharing is truly transformational. We want a piece of the entire pie.”

Amid these negotiations, there’s a notable shift in the WNBA’s landscape. Since 2019, franchise values have soared, and with Golden State becoming the league’s 13th team this year, the league is on track to expand to 18 teams by 2030. According to the latest data from the Sports Business Journal, WNBA franchise valuations have increased by nearly 25% over the past year, highlighting the need for players to secure a fair share of the revenue.

While players share a commitment to goodwill, they also acknowledge the adversarial nature of negotiations. Natasha Cloud from the Liberty said, “We’re fighting for what we’re due, what we’re worth.” As both sides navigate these discussions, the common goal remains: a better future for the players and the league as a whole.

With all eyes on these negotiations, the urgency is clear. Players desire progress and have shown dedication to their cause, but whether they can secure the outcomes they seek remains to be seen.

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