Adam Silver: CBA in the WNBA and tense relationship with the players

Adam Silver Confirms Collective Bargaining Agreement in the WNBA Despite Tensions

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed that a new collective bargaining agreement will be reached with the WNBA players. However, he acknowledged the need to repair relationships following recent criticism directed at Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. These tensions reached their peak last week, when Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier expressed strong criticism of the league’s leadership, which threatened to overshadow the WNBA Finals between Las Vegas and Phoenix.

There are issues we must address with our players, not just economic ones. There are also relationship issues. I trust that we can solve them over time and that this league can continue on the upward trajectory it is currently on.

Adam Silver

Silver also highlighted the significant growth of the WNBA in recent seasons and the frustration expressed by some players towards Engelbert. Negotiations for a new agreement are underway, and negotiators from the league and the players’ association are expected to meet to address the changes the players are seeking. Silver spoke at NBC Sports headquarters, where the network’s return to broadcasting the league this season was discussed, including the televised broadcast of the WNBA Finals in 2026. Derek Fisher, former Lakers player and former president of the National Basketball Players Association, commented on the situation, recalling the importance of negotiations and the need to reach an agreement. Fisher understood the reasons behind the players’ expressions, noting that feelings of distrust and misunderstandings often arise during high-level negotiations. Silver emphasized the determination to reach an agreement with the players, although he acknowledged that there is still much work to be done. Fisher suggested that WNBA players feel they haven’t been valued enough and that there is a disconnect with the league’s management. Fisher also commented on the league’s accelerated growth thanks to figures like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, and the importance of players protecting their position for future generations.