WNBA CBA Negotiations: Three Potential Outcomes as Deadline Approaches
As the deadline for a new collective bargaining agreement looms, the WNBA and WNBPA are unlikely to reach an agreement, leaving three paths forward.
The WNBA is on the brink of a potential stalemate with the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) as they approach the October 31 deadline for a new collective bargaining agreement, according to reports from Front Office Sports.
Terri Carmichael Jackson, WNBPA Executive Director, voiced concerns about the league’s urgency, suggesting players are left questioning the league’s commitment to a fair negotiation.
In response, a WNBA spokesperson emphasized their priority to finalize a new agreement that satisfies player demands while ensuring the league’s sustainability. They noted continued discussions throughout the summer.
As the end of the season approaches, both sides have made limited progress following previous contentious meetings. During these meetings, Breanna Stewart, a standout player from the New York Liberty and WNBPA vice president, expressed disappointment with the dialogue, noting it was a missed chance for positive movement.
Players have made it clear they desire significant financial improvements, pushing for higher revenue shares despite the league’s offer to raise salaries significantly, with recent proposals suggesting maximum salaries could increase to over $1 million.
Cathy Engelbert, the WNBA Commissioner, earlier indicated a commitment to finding a workable compromise while maintaining the league’s economic health. With a lucrative new media rights deal set to take effect next season, players argue for their equitable portion of these earnings as expansion continues both in franchises and in financial stakes.
Despite historic stability with no prior work stoppages, the looming deadline raises the stakes, with three possible scenarios ahead:
- Agreement by Deadline: The preferred option, but seems unlikely at this moment.
- Deadline Extension: Should no deal be reached, a temporary extension of the current agreement could prevent a catastrophic work stoppage, reminiscent of events from 2019.
- Lockout: The most daunting possibility where operations could halt entirely if negotiations fail.
Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President, reminded stakeholders that both parties should prioritize a good deal, stressing the importance of time and collaborative effort to avoid detrimental outcomes.
