Story perspectives

WNBA Free Agency Opens with Salary Increases Ahead

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The WNBA and its players' union announced the start of free agency on Monday, following the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last month.
Teams have until Wednesday to send qualifying offers and designate core players, with free agency negotiations occurring from Wednesday to Friday.
Over 80% of players are free agents this year, and the new CBA promises significant salary increases.
The WNBA draft is scheduled for April 13, with training camps beginning April 19 and the regular season starting May 8.

History

Historical Context

The WNBA's landmark collective bargaining agreement ratified in January 2020 marked a significant shift in player compensation, raising average salaries by over 50% and introducing enhanced benefits like paid maternity leave. This agreement followed years of advocacy by the Women's National Basketball Players Association, which was formed in 1998 to address wage disparities and player rights, setting a precedent for women's professional sports.

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Story summary

The WNBA and its players' union announced the start of free agency on Monday, following the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) last month.
Teams have until Wednesday to send qualifying offers and designate core players, with free agency negotiations occurring from Wednesday to Friday.
Over 80% of players are free agents this year, and the new CBA promises significant salary increases.
The WNBA draft is scheduled for April 13, with training camps beginning April 19 and the regular season starting May 8.

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