WNBA, Players Union Near Negotiation Impasse Ahead CBA Deadline

The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) are unlikely to reach a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by the October 31 deadline, with ongoing disputes primarily over revenue sharing structures and player salaries. The WNBPA seeks a transformational agreement linking salaries directly to league revenue, while the WNBA proposes a fixed salary cap with additional revenue sharing only if certain revenue targets are met, leading to significant but structurally different salary increases. Key issues also include disparities in facilities and travel accommodations, with players like Minnesota Lynx's Napheesa Collier advocating for equitable standards across teams. Tensions have escalated publicly, notably with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's comments downplaying the idea of "sharing" revenue, which the players' union rejected, emphasizing the need for a system tied more meaningfully to business growth. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert's role in negotiations has been questioned amid strained relations with players. Despite some minimal progress, the possibility remains that talks will extend beyond the deadline to avoid a work stoppage, especially as expansion teams prepare to join the league.