New WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement: A Watershed Moment with Potential Implications
The WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is about to set a precedent for other women’s sports. However, this agreement could generate an exodus of talent from the WNBL. The American league is in negotiations with the players’ union to reach an agreement before December 1st. According to reports, it has been proposed to increase the maximum salary to more than $1.1 million dollars. Base salaries are also expected to increase to $220,000, and the average salary to triple, surpassing the current $130,000. However, negotiations have stalled because the union wants the players to share the revenue, instead of receiving fixed salaries, as offered by the league.Talbot, Adelaide Lightning star, commented that young players could take advantage of the off-season for the development of their skills and physical care. In addition, she considered that, if she were younger and could earn good money in the United States, it would undoubtedly be an option. Jade Melbourne, 23, a player for the Washington Mystics, acknowledges that her body feels the strain of playing in the WNBA and then with the UC Capitals. Currently, there are at least nine WNBL players participating in both competitions.It’s important to reach an agreement, but I warn that young players could leave Australia to go to the United States.
Steph Talbot, New York Liberty and Opals player
Melbourne also added that, being young, it bothers him to be doing nothing. If he can do both things, he will, but there could come a point where the United States is his best option, and thus have an off-season. Wage growth and professionalization are crucial points in women’s sports like the A-League Women (ALW). The average salary in the ALW is just over $30,000, and a report by Professional Footballers Australia in November revealed that 76% of the players considered their financial situation to be “not at all” or “slightly” secure.For many Australian players playing in the WNBA, it will depend on satisfaction, but also on what offers the best price. The way it is being talked about in the WNBA could be the option to follow.
Jade Melbourne, Washington Mystic player
Melbourne believes the agreement will benefit the league, as the incorporation of five new teams is planned for 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 that all women’s sports can take as a model. We are not doing this just for the 156 players who were in the WNBA this season. This agreement will have much more significance for many people.
Jade Melbourne, Washington Mystic player
The league doesn’t see some of the best players in Europe, and some people won’t come because… they’re better at home. Once they offer the highest salaries and the best salary cap… we’ll see the WNBA reach another level.
Jade Melbourne, Washington Mystic player
