Full Breakdown
WNBA and Players' Union Continue Negotiations Amid Deadline Pressure
3/12/2026, 6:15:00 AM
Ongoing Negotiations for Collective Bargaining Agreement
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) are engaged in intense negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) as they approach a critical deadline. The latest round of discussions began on March 10, 2026, at The Langham hotel in New York City, following a 12-hour session that concluded at 5 a.m. without a deal. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and WNBPA Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson are leading the talks, which involve key player representatives including Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart, Alysha Clark, and Brianna Turner.
The urgency of these negotiations stems from the league's announcement that a preliminary agreement must be reached by March 10 to avoid delays to the upcoming season, which is scheduled to tip off on May 8, 2026. The timeline also includes an expansion draft for new franchises in Portland and Toronto, set to occur between April 1-6, and a collegiate draft on April 13.
Key Issues at Stake
Central to the negotiations are contentious issues surrounding revenue sharing and player housing. The WNBA has proposed that players receive over 70% of net revenue, while the WNBPA is advocating for an average of 26% of gross revenue throughout the contract period, starting at 25% in the first year. The league has characterized the union's demands as unrealistic, suggesting that they could lead to significant financial losses.
In addition to revenue sharing, the discussions have also touched on player housing provisions, franchise player designations, and benefits for retired players. The lack of consensus on these matters has led to a protracted negotiation process, with both sides exchanging proposals over the past several months.
Official Statements and Responses
Cathy Engelbert expressed the complexity of the negotiations, stating, “It’s complex, but we’re working towards a win-win deal... that balances all the things we’ve been trying to balance with continued investment by our owners.” Meanwhile, Terri Carmichael Jackson noted that there were “a lot of conversations going in the right direction,” emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the optimism expressed by both sides, there are concerns regarding the pace and transparency of the negotiations. Some players, including Stewart and Kelsey Plum, have voiced frustrations about the clarity of their roles and the lack of communication from union leadership. Additionally, a group of player agents has echoed similar sentiments, urging for more direct engagement rather than prolonged proposal exchanges.
What's Next?
As the March 10 deadline has passed, the focus now shifts to whether the two sides can finalize an agreement in time to adhere to the planned schedule for the 2026 season. If a deal is reached, it will require ratification by the board of governors and a majority of voting players, which could take several weeks. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the league's future, particularly as it approaches its 30th anniversary.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We've got to get this deal done. We've got to get it done soon.” — Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner
- “every meeting is a positive meeting.” — Terri Carmichael Jackson, WNBPA Executive Director
- “working towards a win-win deal” — Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner
The stakes are high as both the WNBA and the WNBPA strive to reach a transformative agreement that addresses the needs of players while ensuring the league's financial viability.
