"Current Standstill in WNBA Contract Negotiations": Napheesa Collier Voices Lack of Immediacy in CBA Discussions
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and its players' union, the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), are locked in negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). With the deadline fast approaching on October 31, there's a possibility of an extension or work stoppage if a deal isn't finalized.
Terri Carmichael Jackson, the WNBPA's executive director, has voiced concern that the league hasn't shown enough urgency in matching the need for a new CBA. The union is pushing for a "transformational" deal that reflects the league's growth, with a focus on long-term financial sustainability.
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, a vice president on the WNBPA executive committee, has expressed similar sentiments, stating that the deadline is coming fast, and she feels they're not close to an agreement yet.
The growth of the WNBA is undeniable. The league is currently experiencing record attendance, unprecedented financial growth, and long-term expansion plans, with two new franchises, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, set to join in 2026. The league is also planning to add three more teams by 2030 - Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia.
However, revenue sharing is expected to be the central sticking point in the CBA negotiations. The players believe the timing of the negotiations, coming at a moment of unprecedented visibility and revenue growth, gives them leverage they didn't have in past negotiations.
The league counters that a deal remains its top priority and that negotiations will continue until an agreement is reached. The NBA's players receive roughly half of the league's basketball-related income, with the salary cap tied directly to revenue. This structure may be sought in the WNBA.
Meanwhile, on the court, Caitlin Clark faces injury hurdles as the Fever sweep the Storm, climbing in the standings. Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally criticized the WNBA for discouraging players from competing overseas or in Unrivaled, stating that she made more money at Unrivaled than any year in her entire WNBA career. Her remarks highlight the financial realities many players still face, with top WNBA players seeking supplemental income in overseas leagues or Unrivaled.
The 2019 WNBA season saw a 60-day extension before finalizing a new CBA. The league is hopeful that this year's negotiations will lead to a successful outcome, ensuring the continued growth and success of the WNBA. The players are prepared to remain at the negotiating table until a deal is secured, no matter how long it takes.
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