WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement Negotiations: Tensions and Developments

Kelsey Plum and Breanna Stewart, executive committee members of the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), expressed significant concerns regarding the handling of collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations in a letter addressed to executive director Terri Jackson. The letter, sent on March 6, 2026, highlighted frustrations over inadequate player involvement and communication during the negotiation process, which has been ongoing for 17 months. Plum and Stewart emphasized the need for a more collaborative dynamic between union administrators and players, stating, "we do not feel like we have an adequate seat at the table in these negotiations."

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In their letter, Plum and Stewart noted that they had limited access to negotiation details, having only seen a proposal in January 2026. They requested critical information, including a breakdown of the WNBA's expenses and revenue, to better engage in the negotiation process. The letter also conveyed concerns about the potential impact of a work stoppage on the league's financial health, urging the union to negotiate based on the league's revenue-sharing proposals.

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Despite the challenges, WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike reported that players are "feeling movement" in negotiations. The league's latest proposal includes a salary cap starting at $6.2 million, with average player compensation projected to rise significantly over the contract's duration. However, the players' union has previously sought a salary cap of approximately $9.5 million and a larger share of gross revenue, indicating a substantial gap between the two sides.

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The letter from Plum and Stewart reflects a broader sentiment among players who feel excluded from the negotiation process. Many players have expressed similar frustrations but fear repercussions for voicing their concerns. This dynamic has led to divisions within the union at a critical time when unity is essential for maximizing leverage in negotiations.

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Terri Jackson acknowledged the ongoing discussions, describing the recent marathon negotiation sessions as "a lot of conversation going in the right direction." However, she refrained from promising a breakthrough, emphasizing the complexity of the negotiations. The WNBA has indicated that it is committed to reaching a "transformational deal" that balances player compensation with the league's financial health.

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As the March 10 deadline for a term sheet has passed, negotiations continue with urgency. Training camps are scheduled to begin on April 19, and the regular season is set to start on May 8, 2026. Both sides recognize the importance of finalizing a deal to avoid disruptions to the upcoming season.

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• "We do not feel like we have an adequate seat at the table in these negotiations." — Kelsey Plum, WNBPA Executive Committee Member

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• "Without access to the information requested above, the Executive Committee cannot fulfill this role." — Breanna Stewart, WNBPA Executive Committee Member

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• "At the end of the day, we want a season." — Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President

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• "It’s complex, but we’re working towards a win-win deal." — Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner

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The ongoing negotiations highlight the critical balance between player demands and the league's operational realities, underscoring the need for effective communication and collaboration as both parties strive for a resolution.

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