The Future of the WNBA: Perspectives on Collective Bargaining Negotiations
In the world of professional sports, collective bargaining negotiations are crucial. In the WNBA, Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, along with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and team owners, are seeking an agreement that will drive the continued growth of the league and benefit the players. However, the players’ association has adopted a more aggressive stance, generating public debate and criticism towards the league and its negotiation tactics.
In a context of increasing valuation of WNBA franchises, a new television deal that will begin in 2026 and the expansion to 18 teams by 2030, the league seems to be at its best financial moment since its launch in 1997. Management’s perspective focuses on maintaining the league’s financial growth to ensure its profitability, while rewarding the players, who are the main engine of this growth.WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert took office in July 2019, amidst negotiations for the previous collective bargaining agreement. After challenging seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, she has led the league through a period of remarkable growth, including a $2.2 billion media rights deal and league expansion.
However, the last months of his management have been turbulent, with criticism about the arbitration and controversial statements from players. Engelbert is now at the negotiating table, seeking an agreement that significantly increases the salaries and compensation of the players, incentivizing the investment of the owners and ensuring the long-term viability of the league.
Regarding Engelbert’s continuation as commissioner, the decision might not solely depend on her, as she answers to both Adam Silver and the team owners.Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, has been involved in the development of the WNBA since its inception. Silver seems to want the WNBA to function independently under the NBA umbrella. The recent financial progress of the WNBA has led Silver to get more involved, especially with the interest of more NBA franchises in entering or re-entering the WNBA as team owners.
This could put pressure on the working relationship between Silver and Engelbert. The situation with the Connecticut Sun team, whether it is sold or moved, is an example. Silver seeks for the WNBA to be financially self-sufficient, as an important part of the NBA’s global brand. This collective bargaining agreement could define Silver’s legacy in the WNBA.WNBA owners are divided into two categories: millionaires and billionaires. Joe Tsai, owner of the New York Liberty, has demonstrated his commitment to the franchise. Other owners like Joe Lacob (Golden State Valkyries), Mark Davis (Las Vegas Aces), and Mat Ishbia (Phoenix) share this vision, investing in state-of-the-art facilities and seeking greater returns. These owners, who also own NBA teams or other professional sports, may be more willing to offer players a larger share of the revenue, relying on the profits generated by attendance, jersey sales, and other income.Independent owners, such as those of the Seattle Storm and Connecticut Sun, played a key role in keeping the WNBA afloat in its early years. These owners are now in the minority, as NBA owners have recognized the financial potential of women’s basketball. Given their limited resources, independent owners focus on controlling expenses and maintaining a level playing field. They also defend the need to recover losses incurred in the operation of their franchises when WNBA revenues were not as strong.With the success of the Valkyries’ inaugural season, there are five new teams awaiting their opportunity. Expansion teams, such as the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, are eager for the new collective bargaining agreement, as the rules for the expansion draft must be collectively bargained, and they will not be able to form their rosters until an agreement is reached.General managers, although not directly represented in the negotiations, will be affected by changes in roster size, salaries, the salary cap, and draft eligibility. The flexibility offered by the new collective bargaining agreement will be key for them. The difficult decisions that general managers must make have intensified due to the WNBA’s rigid salary cap, which makes mid-season trades difficult. General managers must also know how the WNBA will handle the upcoming expansion drafts.Coaches, such as Cheryl Reeve, Sandy Brondello, and Becky Hammon, will also be impacted by the new collective bargaining agreement. This agreement will influence their jobs, including prioritization rules, roster size, and team building. Improving refereeing is also a key point. Coaches are highly involved and want the WNBA to be financially stable and continue to grow.
