Full Breakdown
WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement Negotiations Enter Critical Phase
3/18/2026, 1:22:27 AM
Ongoing Negotiations and Key Issues
The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players’ Association (WNBPA) are currently engaged in intense negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which have extended into a seventh consecutive day. The discussions, which have totaled over 90 hours of face-to-face meetings, are crucial to ensuring the timely start of the 2026 WNBA season, scheduled to open on May 8. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has emphasized the urgency of finalizing a deal by Monday to avoid disruptions to the preseason schedule, which begins with games on April 25.
The primary sticking points in the negotiations are revenue sharing and housing benefits for players. The WNBPA is advocating for a share of the league's gross revenue, initially requesting 40% but now seeking 26%. In contrast, the league has proposed a model based on net revenue, which has been a significant point of contention. Engelbert noted that the league's offer exceeds 15% of gross revenue, but this remains below the players' demands.
Perspectives from Key Figures
Nneka Ogwumike, president of the WNBPA, has highlighted the importance of resolving these issues, stating, “It’s very important for us to nail those two things down.” She underscored the significance of housing benefits, which have been provided by teams since the league's inception. The league's proposal includes a phased approach to housing, where teams would continue to cover costs for rookies and minimum-salary players, while transitioning away from covering housing for higher-paid players.
Engelbert expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, stating, “We are going to keep going. We're going to get this deal done… and it’s going to be historic.” This sentiment was echoed by Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti, who remarked on the commitment from both sides to finalize a deal, emphasizing the critical nature of the negotiations.
Official Statements and Responses
Both the WNBA and WNBPA have acknowledged progress in the negotiations, though they recognize that significant work remains. WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson stated, “We’re still working. We’re still fighting. There’s still some things that we have to — big issue things — that we have to get through.” Engelbert reiterated the league's commitment to a swift resolution, highlighting the motivation of both parties to finalize the agreement.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While both sides have indicated progress, specific details regarding the current status of revenue sharing negotiations remain unclear. The WNBPA's initial request for 40% of gross revenue has been reduced to 26%, but the league's latest offer is not publicly confirmed. Additionally, the potential impact of these negotiations on the preseason schedule and training camps remains uncertain, with Engelbert admitting, “I wish I knew the answer to that.”
What's Next
As the negotiations continue, the clock is ticking toward the start of the season. The WNBA must also navigate an expansion draft for Portland and Toronto, as well as free agency for a significant portion of the league. The outcome of these negotiations will not only determine the financial framework for players but also the operational timeline for the upcoming season. Both sides remain committed to reaching a resolution that could set a new precedent for women's professional sports.
