WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement Negotiations Progress

The WNBA players' union, led by president Nneka Ogwumike, has reported progress in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) following a series of lengthy bargaining sessions. After a nine-hour meeting on Wednesday, Ogwumike expressed optimism, stating, “We want to play. We’ve heard that from the other side as well.” The discussions followed a 12-hour session that began on Tuesday evening, indicating a commitment from both sides to reach a resolution.

Castanet

During these negotiations, the union and the league exchanged multiple proposals, with Ogwumike noting that seven proposals were shared over the two days. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert highlighted the league's latest offer as "historic and transformational," which includes significant increases in player salaries and benefits. The proposed salary cap for the first year has risen to $6.2 million, up from $5.75 million, with average player salaries projected to increase from $120,000 last year to $570,000 in the first year of the new agreement.

CastanetESPN

The negotiations involve key figures from both the WNBA and the players' union. Alongside Ogwumike, the union's executive committee includes Breanna Stewart, Alysha Clark, and Brianna Turner, with executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson also participating. The league's negotiating team features Engelbert, head of league operations Bethany Donaphin, and New York Liberty owner Clara Wu Tsai, among others.

ESPN

Despite the progress, several contentious issues remain, particularly around revenue sharing, housing provisions, and benefits for retired players. The union has proposed that players receive an average of 26% of gross revenue over the CBA's duration, while the league has countered with offers that provide over 70% of net revenue, which the union argues is insufficient.

ESPN

The urgency of these negotiations is underscored by the league's timeline. A handshake agreement is necessary by March 10 to ensure the season starts as scheduled on May 8. Following a successful agreement, the WNBA plans to hold an expansion draft for new franchises in Portland and Toronto between April 1-6, with free agency negotiations commencing shortly thereafter.

Castanet

Engelbert emphasized the need for a swift resolution, stating, “We’ve got to get this deal done. We’ve got to get it done soon.” The league's proposals include a salary cap that would grow in line with revenue, with maximum salaries projected to reach nearly $2 million by the final year of the agreement.

ESPN

While both sides express a desire to reach an agreement, there are differing perspectives on the feasibility of the proposals. The league has labeled the union's demands as unrealistic, suggesting they could lead to significant financial losses. Conversely, the union remains committed to negotiating in good faith, with Ogwumike asserting that the timeline set by the league is not a priority for them.

Castanet

• “I just want to say as a former player, I don’t know that I ever thought I would see the day that such a transformational deal would be offered and on the table for these players and proud of that,” — Jen Rizzotti, Connecticut Sun President

Castanet

• “Seriously, every meeting is a positive meeting.” — Terri Carmichael Jackson, WNBPA Executive Director

ESPN

• “Our proposal on the table is a real historic and transformational deal for these players,” — Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner

Castanet

The ongoing negotiations reflect a critical moment for the WNBA, with potential implications for the future of women's professional sports.

Castanet