WNBA Players, League Clash Over Revenue Sharing Ahead of CBA Expiry

The WNBA's current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is set to expire soon, with ongoing negotiations between the league and the players' association reaching a stalemate primarily over salary frameworks and revenue sharing. Political figures, including New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, have publicly supported the players in urging a fair agreement before the deadline. The WNBA Players Association demands a salary system linked directly to league revenue, contrasting with the league's proposal of a fixed salary model combined with separate revenue sharing. Adding complexity, players Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier co-founded the offseason league Unrivaled, which is rapidly growing and offering competitive salaries, potentially drawing talent away from the WNBA. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed support for increased player compensation but suggested focusing on absolute salary increases rather than strictly revenue share percentages, a stance that drew criticism from the players' union. Both sides have publicly criticized each other, with the league insisting its uncapped revenue sharing proposal aligns players' pay with league performance, while the players accuse the league of maintaining an artificial salary system that limits labor costs.