WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement Extension: What Are the Implications?
The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have agreed to extend the current collective bargaining agreement until January 9, 2026, representing an extension of just under six weeks. This decision, made less than half an hour before midnight on Sunday, allows both parties to continue negotiations for a new agreement. Both sides have the option to end the agreement with a 48-hour notice. During the weekend meetings, the WNBPA proposed a six-week extension, while the league initially sought a 21-day extension. But, what does this mean for the future of the league?Impact of the Extension
Extensions are not unusual, as seen in the negotiations of the previous agreement. A new agreement could be finalized before January 9, but the expansion draft for the Toronto and Portland teams will almost certainly be delayed. The rules for this draft depend on the collective bargaining agreement, so a new agreement is needed. Additionally, WNBA free agency will be impacted, as teams typically tender qualifying offers and key player designations starting January 11. With most of the league’s veterans entering free agency this year, fully solidifying this part of the offseason will be a challenge. The university draft is scheduled for April 13, 2026, followed by training camps and the start of the matches in May. Continued labor uncertainty could have commercial implications if fans and corporate partners fear there will be no season in 2026.Possible Scenarios
If an agreement is not reached after the extension, the parties could agree to another extension to continue negotiations. However, if there is no extension, a “status quo” period would begin, maintaining the working conditions of the current agreement. This could open the door to a player strike or a lockout. An extension is a logical measure for both parties to negotiate in good faith. Prolonged labor uncertainty has real commercial implications, and this year the WNBA and the players face unique time pressure. The league needs to hold an expansion draft for the Portland and Toronto teams, which can only happen after a new collective bargaining agreement is completed. Free agency, which is expected to be very active, will also be affected. Last year, the Golden State Valkyries’ expansion draft was held in early December. The longer it takes to reach an agreement, the longer these crucial parts of the offseason will be delayed.Key Points in Negotiations
The WNBA’s proposal included significant salary increases and a revenue-sharing component, offering players a maximum of over $1.1 million and a minimum of over $220,000. However, the WNBPA did not consider this proposal to advance the negotiations. The players’ main concern is that the proposal did not include a system in which the salary cap and player salaries would grow with the business, as in the NBA, where the salary cap is directly determined by basketball-related income. Players want a salary system more directly based on revenue, instead of a fixed salary cap.Statements from the Parties
The WNBA has proposed “significant guaranteed salary increases and a substantial revenue sharing without a cap that allows player salaries to grow as the league’s business grows.”The WNBPA did not see the proposal as something that would advance the negotiations.
Sources close to the WNBPA
Negotiations continue, and the parties will meet before the Sunday deadline. The expansion draft is affected, and free agency could be on an accelerated schedule.The proposal is to “put lipstick on a pig and revisit a system that is not tied to any part of the business and intentionally undervalues the players.”
WNBPA
Other Points to Consider
The priorities at the negotiating table include the salary structure, revenue sharing, the establishment of minimum professional standards at the facilities, and the codification of the league’s charter travel program. The league seeks to increase player salaries and other investments, while incentivizing owners to continue investing in the business. The expansion of retirement and family planning benefits is also important for players. The league is also considering relaxing prioritization rules, and abolishing the “core” system. The WNBA has no plans to request exclusivity from its players. The WNBA expansion draft for the Toronto and Portland teams, which will begin their inaugural seasons in 2026, is one of the first issues to be addressed once a new collective bargaining agreement is established. In the expansion draft, existing teams are expected to be able to protect only five players.
