Full Breakdown
WNBA Expansion Draft Delayed by CBA Negotiations
1/16/2026, 12:28:10 PM
Ongoing CBA Negotiations Impact WNBA Offseason
The ongoing negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) have significantly delayed the WNBA offseason, including the highly anticipated expansion draft for the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, set to debut in the 2026 season. The expansion draft cannot proceed until the new CBA is ratified, as many rules governing player selection are subject to collective bargaining. Previously, the expansion draft was expected to occur by December 6, 2024, following the timeline established during the last expansion draft in 2000. However, the current uncertainty has transformed what was expected to be a busy offseason into a waiting game for teams and players alike.
Expansion Draft Rules and Team Strategies
Under the anticipated rules, existing teams will likely be able to protect five players, a reduction from the six players allowed during the last expansion draft. This change presents challenges for teams like the Phoenix Mercury, who must strategize on player protection amid a landscape where most veterans are free agents. The Mercury's potential protected list includes Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Monique Akoa Makani, Natasha Mack, and Kathryn Westbeld. Notably, Kahleah Copper is excluded from consideration due to her status as an unrestricted free agent who has exhausted her core eligibility.
The Mercury's roster decisions will be influenced by the current CBA negotiations, which could alter the rules surrounding player designations and free agency. If the core designation rules change, it may allow the Mercury to protect additional players, thereby impacting their overall strategy.
Criticism and Concerns
Critics have raised concerns about the implications of the delayed CBA negotiations on team strategies and player movement. The uncertainty surrounding player protections and free agency rules has left teams like the Indiana Fever in a precarious position. The Fever, facing similar challenges, must prepare for a flurry of transactions once the CBA is finalized. They are expected to protect key players such as Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston, but may have to gamble on leaving fan-favorite Sophie Cunningham unprotected.
Official Statements & Responses
The WNBA has not released specific details regarding the new CBA or the rules for the expansion draft, leaving teams and players in a state of uncertainty. The league's officials have emphasized the importance of reaching a fair agreement that benefits all parties involved, but no timeline for resolution has been provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “com/IINrmhnyLM — anti-generational (@jusanothernword) November 21, 2025 The bottom line is the decisions will come in rapid succession once the WNBA is back open for business.” — Robin Lundberg, Sports Analyst
- “Regardless of what happens, it’s likely that she’ll remain in Phoenix.” — Analysis on Kahleah Copper's future
What's Next
As the WNBA awaits the conclusion of CBA negotiations, teams are preparing for the implications of the expansion draft and free agency. Once the CBA is ratified, a series of rapid decisions will follow, shaping the future of the league and its franchises. The Fever and Mercury, among others, will need to act swiftly to secure their rosters and capitalize on the available talent in the upcoming offseason.
