Full Breakdown
Urgent Negotiations for WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement
3/15/2026, 9:10:22 AM
Critical Deadline for Agreement
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is currently engaged in intense negotiations with the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) to finalize a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by Monday. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the urgency of reaching a deal to avoid disruptions to the upcoming season, including training camps set to begin on April 19 and preseason games scheduled for April 25. Engelbert stated, “We have to get it done by Monday... without disrupting some part of the fact that we've got to run this two-team expansion [draft].”
Progress Amidst Challenges
Negotiations have been ongoing since Tuesday, with both sides reportedly spending over 50 hours discussing various aspects of the CBA. Engelbert and WNBPA Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson have acknowledged progress, particularly on ancillary issues, while recognizing that significant hurdles remain, especially regarding revenue sharing. Jackson noted, “As long as movement keeps us going in a forward direction, then I think we're good,” indicating a cautious optimism about the negotiations.
Revenue Sharing Discrepancies
A major point of contention lies in the proposed revenue-sharing models. The WNBA has suggested that players receive an average of over 70% of net revenue, which is calculated after expenses. In contrast, the WNBPA's latest proposal seeks 26% of gross revenue, which is calculated before expenses. The union had initially requested 40% of gross revenue but has since adjusted its demands. Engelbert has described the union's previous proposals as “unrealistic,” warning that they could lead to significant financial losses for the league.
Key Figures and Their Roles
The negotiations involve key figures from both sides. Engelbert leads the league's negotiation team, which includes Bethany Donaphin, head of league operations, and Clara Wu Tsai, owner of the New York Liberty. On the union side, Jackson is supported by WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike, Vice Presidents Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, and other executive committee members. Their collaborative efforts are crucial for addressing the complex issues at hand.
Official Statements and Responses
Both Engelbert and Jackson have expressed a commitment to finding common ground. Engelbert remarked, “It is meaningful to sit across the table and listen to their concerns,” while Jackson highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue to address mutual concerns. Despite the challenges, both parties are focused on achieving a transformational deal that benefits players while ensuring the league's sustainability.
What's Next
As the deadline approaches, the urgency for a resolution intensifies. If an agreement is reached, it will still take several weeks for the CBA to be ratified, during which critical offseason activities, including the expansion draft for the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, and free agency for over 100 players, must be scheduled. The league aims to maintain its timeline, with the 2026 WNBA Draft set for April 13 and the regular season slated to begin on May 8.
In summary, the WNBA and WNBPA are at a pivotal moment in their negotiations, with the outcome potentially shaping the future of the league and its players.
