WNBA and WNBPA Engage in Lengthy Negotiations
The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) met for almost 12 hours in Midtown Manhattan on March 11, 2026, to discuss the ongoing collective bargaining agreement. The meeting commenced at 5 p.m. ET and concluded around 5 a.m. ET, with players leaving after nearly 10 hours of discussions.
Terri Jackson, the executive director of the WNBPA, described the negotiations as “going in the right direction,” reflecting a positive atmosphere despite the lengthy discussions. Cathy Engelbert, the WNBA commissioner, acknowledged the complexity of the negotiations, stating, “We’re working hard towards a win-win deal like we’ve been saying, transformational deal for these players.”
One of the key proposals from the league includes a significant increase in the salary cap, which is set to rise to $5.75 million in 2026, up from $1.5 million in 2025. This proposal aims to enhance the financial landscape for players as the league continues to grow.
Additionally, the average player salary, including revenue sharing, is projected to reach $540,000 in 2026. This figure represents a substantial increase and aligns with the players’ push for better compensation tied to the league’s revenue.
The 2026 WNBA season is scheduled to begin on May 8, and players are eager to finalize the terms of the new agreement before the season starts. Jackson emphasized the importance of reaching a deal soon, stating, “We’ve got to get this deal done. We’ve got to get it done soon.”
Historically, players opted out of the previous collective bargaining agreement in October 2024 to advocate for a revenue-sharing structure that would tie their salaries to the business’s success. This move reflects the players’ commitment to securing better financial terms.
Despite the progress reported in the recent negotiations, details remain unconfirmed, and no deal appears imminent as of the latest discussions. The exact terms of the proposals exchanged between the league and the players’ union have not been disclosed, leaving observers awaiting further updates.
As the negotiations continue, the WNBA community remains hopeful for a resolution that will benefit both the players and the league, paving the way for a successful 2026 season.
