WNBA: Impact of the new CBA on star and rookie salaries for 2026

Historic Salary Increase in the WNBA: A New Collective Bargaining Agreement

WNBA players have reached a collective agreement that includes significant improvements in their salaries starting in 2026. This agreement, ratified by the league’s board of governors and unanimously approved by the players, promises a historic increase in the earnings of professional women’s basketball players. The 2026 season will mark a milestone with a salary cap of $7 million per team, a considerable increase compared to the $1.5 million in 2025. This change will allow players of all levels to enjoy better economic conditions.

Elite Players’ Salaries

A prominent example is A’ja Wilson, a renowned player. At 29 years old and with eight seasons in the WNBA, Wilson, who won her third WNBA title and her fourth MVP award in 2025, went from earning $200,000 in 2025 to a projected salary of $1.4 million in 2026. Her impact on the court and her value to the team position her to receive the maximum permitted salary.

David Becker/NBAE via Getty ImagesThe maximum salary for elite players in 2026 will be $1.19 million.

Average Veteran Players Salaries

Alanna Smith, at 29 years old and with seven years of experience in the WNBA, is another example. With a salary of $150,000 in 2025, Smith could reach $600,000 in 2026. The estimated average salary for veterans in 2026 is $583,800. The league expects the application of the new collective bargaining agreement to better determine salary ranges.

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Minimum Salaries for Veterans

Erica Wheeler, with 35 years old and 10 years of experience, exemplifies the value of veterans. After earning $78,831 in 2025, her projected salary for 2026 is $300,000. The minimum salary for players with 10 or more years of experience is $300,000. Wheeler, known for her dedication and skills, has proven to be a valuable asset to any team.

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Contracts for Elite Newcomers

Caitlin Clark, 24 years old, with two years of experience, is an example of the impact of the new agreement for rookies. Her projected salary for 2026 is $530,000, a significant increase from her previous salary. The agreement allows for the renegotiation of contracts and the possibility of obtaining maximum contracts, especially for players with exceptional performance.

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn ImagesThanks to the “EPIC” function of the new agreement, players can renegotiate the fourth year of their rookie contract and agree to a three-year contract extension. Achievements such as being named to the first or second All-WNBA team could earn them a maximum contract, or winning the MVP a supermax contract. Clark was limited to 13 games last year due to injuries. But she was All-WNBA as a rookie in 2024 and, therefore, will be eligible for a maximum contract in 2027.

2026 Draft First Pick Projection

Azzi Fudd, a 23-year-old guard, is projected as one of the top picks for the 2026 draft. The starting salary for the first draft pick in 2026 will be $500,000.

Joe Buglewicz/Getty ImagesThe WNBA draft is scheduled for April 13, with the Dallas Wings having the first pick. Fudd, the Spanish Awa Fam, and Olivia Miles from TCU are projected as the top three picks.