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Story perspectives

WNBA and Players' Union Reach Historic CBA Agreement

3/20/2026

50 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The WNBA and the WNBPA reached a verbal agreement on a new CBA after over 100 hours of negotiations, pending ratification.
Starting in 2026, the salary cap will rise to $7 million, up from $1.5 million in 2025, with the 2026 season beginning May 8.
Maximum salaries reach $1.4 million, with average around $600,000 and minimum above $300,000.
Revenue sharing will let players earn about 20% of league revenue.

History

Historical Context

In 2005, the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association established a collective bargaining agreement that allowed players to earn up to 57% of league revenues, significantly increasing their compensation. This trend continues in women's sports, as seen in the recent WNBA agreement, which raised the salary cap to $7 million, reflecting ongoing efforts for equitable pay in professional athletics.

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Story summary

The WNBA and the WNBPA reached a verbal agreement on a new CBA after over 100 hours of negotiations, pending ratification.
Starting in 2026, the salary cap will rise to $7 million, up from $1.5 million in 2025, with the 2026 season beginning May 8.
Maximum salaries reach $1.4 million, with average around $600,000 and minimum above $300,000.
Revenue sharing will let players earn about 20% of league revenue.

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