WNBA player union chooses to exit existing collective bargaining contract

The WNBA players’ union has announced its decision to opt out of the existing collective bargaining agreement, doing so two years prior to its scheduled expiration. The league and the players’ union had a deadline to exercise this option before November 1.

This early decision is significant for the league’s future. Recently, the WNBA inked a groundbreaking media rights deal valued at $200 million annually, which spans 11 years.

This season, the league saw unprecedented levels of attendance and viewership, culminating in a thrilling WNBA Finals where the New York team triumphed over Minnesota in a dramatic overtime fifth game.

“This moment is pivotal not only for the WNBA but for all those who advocate for progress,” said WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike. “The landscape has changed since 2020, and we cannot afford to be stagnant. Remaining in the current agreement would hinder our advancement. We are entering a new era and are prepared to drive transformative change.”