Full Breakdown
Key Negotiation Hurdles in WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement
3/16/2026, 7:33:35 PM
Core Issues in Negotiations
Negotiations between the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) are currently focused on two primary issues: revenue sharing and team-funded housing for players. Nneka Ogwumike, president of the WNBPA, emphasized the importance of resolving these matters during a fifth consecutive day of discussions. The urgency stems from the need to finalize a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) before the upcoming WNBA season, which is scheduled to start on May 8.
Revenue Sharing Discrepancies
Revenue sharing remains the most significant obstacle in the negotiations. The league's proposals have centered on players receiving a percentage of net revenue—revenue calculated after expenses—while the union has advocated for a share of gross revenue, which is calculated before expenses are deducted. Initially, the union sought 40% of gross revenue but has since reduced its demand to 26%. In contrast, the league has offered players more than 70% of net revenue. Ogwumike described revenue sharing as a critical topic, stating, “We’ve talked a lot about revenue share... it’s there, you know, like we’re going to talk about it.”
Housing Provisions Under Discussion
Another key issue is the provision of housing for players. Historically, WNBA teams have covered player housing costs, but the league has proposed changes in the new CBA. The league's plan suggests that while they would continue to pay for housing for all players in the upcoming season, this support would shift to only cover rookies and players earning the minimum salary in the latter years of the agreement. Ogwumike noted the significance of housing benefits, stating, “...housing is really big... especially for the women in the W.” The union is advocating for teams to maintain housing support for players in the early years of the new agreement.
Timeline and Implications
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has indicated that a deal must be reached by early next week to avoid disruptions to the league's schedule, including the start of training camps and preseason games, which are set to begin on April 25. Engelbert acknowledged the tight timeline, stating, “Can things be 24 to 48 hours later than maybe a date that we put on a piece of paper just to get everybody understanding there is a basketball calendar here? Can things be 24 to 48 hours (later)? Sure.”
Conclusion
As negotiations continue, the resolution of revenue sharing and housing provisions will be pivotal in determining the smooth commencement of the WNBA season. The league faces a critical deadline to finalize the CBA, ensuring that the upcoming season can proceed without delays.
