Adam Silver Confirms Big WNBA Salary Increase in New CBA

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed that WNBA players will receive a significant salary increase in the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which is currently under negotiation and set to expire on October 31, 2025. Silver emphasized that rather than focusing on the share of league revenue—WNBA players currently receive about 9.3% compared to roughly 50% for NBA players—the increase should be viewed in terms of absolute salary growth. However, a major point of contention remains over how player salaries should be determined, with WNBA players advocating for a revenue-sharing model tied to the league's growth, similar to the NBA's system, while the league proposes a fixed annual salary cap increase. Players, including Phoenix Mercury's Satou Sabally, have expressed frustration that the league's current proposals do not adequately reflect their role in the league's growth and could lead to a decrease in their relative compensation. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has pledged to significantly raise salaries and benefits while ensuring the league's long-term viability. Negotiations are ongoing, with the possibility of a lockout if an agreement is not reached by the deadline.