MIAMI – With the WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement deadline fast approaching, Women’s National Basketball Players Association Vice President Brianna Stewart stated on Thursday that an extension isn’t on the table, as both parties aim to negotiate sincerely.
“We won’t finalize a deal by tomorrow, I can assure you,” Stewart mentioned following a practice with the Unrivaled Mist. “Our negotiations will continue in good faith.”
The WNBA and the players’ association have found themselves at a standstill for over 14 months since the players opted out of the existing CBA.
Some players from Unrivaled conveyed their disappointment this week, though not unexpectedly. “It’s not great or terrible,” Chelsea Gray remarked. “Just not where we hoped to be at this point.” Meanwhile, Alyssa Thomas added, “This is definitely a challenge. There’s much work ahead.”
When asked about her confidence as the CBA deadline looms, WNBPA Vice President Kelsey Plumb, who plays for the Phantom and is a star for the Sparks, shared a laugh before responding.
Officials confirm that neither the WNBA nor the players’ association plans to extend the current CBA, which expires on Friday at 11:59 p.m. Stewart, also a forward for the Liberty, warned not to expect any last-minute extensions.
It seems unlikely that a deal will be reached, leading to a period of maintaining the status quo while both sides work through the finer details at the negotiation table.
Still, there’s a chance things could take a different turn. Back in mid-December, the WNBPA gave its executive committee the authority to initiate a strike if deemed necessary. Notably, 93% of players participated in this vote, with an overwhelming 98% in favor.
Stewart clarified that the strike vote was primarily to reinforce solidarity within the union. “We’re aligning on our situation,” she said. “At this point, it’s not an immediate plan, but it’s a tool we can keep in mind. We’re eager to continue negotiating and hope we can convene, although being in Miami limits how we can meet up.”
This story is still developing. Stay tuned for updates.
