New WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement: A Watershed Moment with Potential Implications for Women’s Basketball
The WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is set to set a precedent in women’s sports, but it could also divert talent from the WNBL. Currently, the American league is in negotiations with the players’ union to reach an agreement before December 1 (AEDT). It has been reported that the WNBA has offered to increase the maximum salary to more than $1.1 million U.S. dollars. Additionally, base salaries are expected to increase to $220,000 U.S. dollars, and the average salary will triple, surpassing the current $130,000 U.S. dollars. However, negotiations have stalled because the union wants the players to share revenue instead of receiving fixed salaries, as offered by the league.Jade Melbourne, 23, a player for the Washington Mystics, admits that her body feels the impact 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 she warns that young players could leave Australia to go to the United States.
Steph Talbot, New York Liberty and Opals player
Wage growth and professionalization are key points in women’s sports, such as the A-League Women (ALW). The average salary in the ALW is just over $30,000 Australian dollars, and a report by Professional Footballers Australia in November found that 76% of the players reported that their financial situation was ‘not at all’ or ‘slightly’ secure.For many of the Australian players who play in the WNBA, it will depend on the fun, but also on what the best price is. The way they are talking in the WNBA could be the option to follow.
Jade Melbourne, player of the Washington Mystics
Melbourne believes the agreement will benefit the league itself, as five new teams plan to join by 2030. This includes Toronto next year, which will be led by Opals coach Sandy Brondello.If we can reach a groundbreaking agreement, it will be something very important and something that all women’s sports can take as a model.
Jade Melbourne, player for the Washington Mystics
The league doesn’t see some of the best players in Europe, and some people won’t come because… they’re better off at home. Once they present the highest salaries and the best salary cap… we’ll see the WNBA reach another level.
Jade Melbourne, Washington Mystics player
