WNBA Negotiations Update
NEW YORK (AP) — In the latest development in ongoing negotiations between the WNBA and its players’ union, the league has tabled a counterproposal which aims to extend housing benefits for all players throughout the current season. However, this counterproposal has not substantially modified the WNBA’s stance on revenue sharing, a source familiar with the discussions informed The Associated Press under the condition of anonymity due to the confidential nature of these negotiations.
Players’ Union Proposal
The new proposal comes just three days after the players’ union presented their own offer to the league. Under this plan, teams will cover housing costs for all players this season, but moving forward, only those on minimum salary contracts and first-year rookies will continue to have their accommodations paid. Additionally, teams will be responsible for housing for two developmental players they are permitted to sign.
While the union requested continued housing support for players during the initial years of a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), it ceased to push for that funding in the latter two years for those players earning near the maximum salary.
Revenue Sharing Dispute
In a significant aspect of their proposal, the union is advocating for an average revenue share of 27.5% of the gross income generated during the life of the agreement, falling short of their earlier request for over 30%. This revenue share proposal includes a provision for a reduced share of 25% in the first year.
However, the WNBA has labeled this figure as unrealistic, claiming that it would result in losses in the hundreds of millions for its franchises. According to the league’s latest proposal, players would receive more than 70% of the net revenue — profits after all expenses are taken into account. These expenses incorporate enhanced facilities, charter travel, luxury accommodations, medical services, and security for the players.
Impact of Delays
If an agreement on the new CBA is not reached promptly, it could hinder the preparations for the 2026 season. The delay is already affecting the expansion draft for potential teams in Toronto and Portland, as well as the opening of free agency. The league emphasized the urgency of resolving these financial discussions, pointing out the need to complete two drafts and free agency before the upcoming training camp, which they consider crucial for player development and league stability.
“We believe the WNBA’s proposal would result in a huge win for current players and generations to come,” the league remarked in a recent statement.
Historical Context
Historically, the last CBA was finalized in January 2020, just a month after the negotiation consensus was reached, and it typically takes about two months from reaching a new agreement to commence free agency. With a significant salary increase anticipated, a notable 80% of the league’s players are currently free agents, marking a potentially transformative moment for player movement within the WNBA. Delays in finalizing the CBA could have detrimental consequences for both the league and its athletes, with the season slated to kick off on May 8. Any games postponed would mean a loss of valuable revenue, sponsorships, television contracts, and fan engagement.
