New WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement: A Watershed Moment with Potential Implications
The new WNBA collective bargaining agreement is set to mark a before and after in women’s sports, but it could also affect the Australian WNBL league. The American league is in negotiations with the players’ union to reach an agreement before December 1st. It has been proposed to increase the maximum salary to more than 1.1 million US dollars. In addition, base salaries are expected to rise to $220,000 US dollars, and the average salary will triple, exceeding the current $130,000 US dollars. However, negotiations have stalled because the union wants the players to share revenue instead of receiving fixed salaries, as offered by the league.Talbot, Adelaide Lightning star, commented that players might seek a break in the off-season for physical and skill development. “If I were younger and earning good money in America, it would definitely be an option.” Jade Melbourne, 23, a player for the Washington Mystics, acknowledges the physical impact of playing in the WNBA and then with the UC Capitals. Currently, there are at least nine WNBL players competing in both leagues.It’s important that an agreement is reached, but young players could leave Australia to go to the United States.
Steph Talbot, New York Liberty and Opals player
Melbourne adds that, although it bothers her to be inactive, there could come a point where the United States is her best option for having an off-season. Wage growth and professionalization are key issues in women’s sports like the A-League Women (ALW). The average salary in the ALW is just over 30,000 Australian dollars. A report by Professional Footballers Australia in November revealed that 76% of the players considered their financial situation “not at all” or “slightly” secure.For many Australian players who play in the WNBA, it will depend on satisfaction, but also on the best economic offer. The way things are developing in the WNBA could be the best option in the future.
Jade Melbourne
Melbourne believes the agreement will benefit the league, with the addition of five new teams by 2030. This includes Toronto next year, which will be led by Opals coach Sandy Brondello.If we achieve a groundbreaking agreement, it will be something very important and a model for all women’s sports. We are not just doing it for the 156 players who were in the WNBA this season. This agreement will have much more significance for many people.
Jade Melbourne
The league doesn’t see some of the best players in Europe, and some won’t come because… they’re better off at home. Once they have the highest salaries and the best salary cap… we’ll see the WNBA reach another level.
Jade Melbourne
