NEW YORK — This year marked a significant milestone for the WNBA, as the league experienced unprecedented growth in both viewership and attendance. In light of this success, players are advocating for a larger share of the league’s financial gains.
The deadline for the players’ union and the league to possibly opt out of their existing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is set for November 1. Insiders suggest that the players are likely to pursue this option, driven by their demands for increased salaries, especially after the WNBA secured a groundbreaking 11-year media rights agreement worth $200 million annually with major companies like Disney, Amazon Prime, and NBC.
Breanna Stewart, who holds a vice-presidential role in the players’ union, acknowledged the numerous discussions taking place within the union. However, she has struggled to participate in as many of these talks as she desires, given her commitment to her team, the New York Liberty, in the ongoing WNBA Finals.
“They’ve been productive, with strong communication about potential improvements; the time for action is approaching,” Stewart commented. “Navigating these discussions while the season is ongoing has been challenging, but we are reaching a point where our objectives are clear.”
Should the union decide to opt out, the existing CBA—which was originally set to last until 2027—will remain in effect for the upcoming season. This means that both parties would have a full year to negotiate a new agreement.
During her state-of-the-league address prior to Game 1 of the Finals, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed her commitment to engaging in dialogue with union leaders. “This represents an opportunity to listen and collaborate, elevating the league for future generations,” Engelbert remarked. “I’m eager to discuss the league’s future with the players, regardless of whether they choose to opt out.”
She further noted that the league, bolstered by the recent media rights deal and a growing roster of corporate partners, is in a strong position. Engelbert highlighted the increased marketing opportunities for players, which have raised their profiles significantly compared to five years ago.
“There’s hardly a sports event you can watch where you won’t see one of our players featured in an advertisement,” she added, pointing out prominent players like Aliyah Boston, Sabrina Ionescu, and A’ja Wilson. This progress is viewed as a positive indicator for the future of both the league and the relationship between the Players Association and the owners.
Stewart listed several priorities that the union hopes to address in the next CBA, including enhanced pensions, improved childcare benefits, and higher salaries. She emphasized the desire for the charter flight arrangements established this year to be formalized in writing.
“Pensions and retroactive pay for players who have served a certain number of years in the league would be a significant advancement,” Stewart said. “Additionally, enhancing family planning and childcare benefits would be essential.” She pointed out that currently, a player must have eight years of service in the league to qualify for these benefits.
“Eight years is quite a lengthy requirement,” Stewart continued. “Very few players manage to remain in the league for that long.” She also mentioned the importance of allowing teams to have high-earning players, advocating for the potential of a million-dollar player when the current maximum salary is around $250,000.
“It’s crucial that the salary cap continues to rise in line with the new TV deal,” Stewart stated. “However, figuring out how to implement these changes remains difficult.”