The WNBA Players Association decided to withdraw from the current collective bargaining agreement two years before it expires. The league and players association had the option to do so before Nov. 1.
An early opt-out would be a critical juncture for the league. The WNBA has signed a historic 11-year media rights deal worth $200 million annually.
This year's league saw record attendance and viewership, culminating in Sunday's WNBA Finals, where New York defeated Minnesota in overtime in a decisive Game 5.
“This is a defining moment, not just for the WNBA, but for all of us who believe in progress,” WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike said Monday. “The world has evolved since 2020 and we cannot afford to stand still. If we stay with the current agreement, we will be left behind. This is a new era and we need to change.” I’m ready to lead.”
The league is growing rapidly and is making great strides in 2024 after years of significant and sustained growth. According to the union, ESPN has significantly increased viewership, reaching 170% viewership during the regular season.
The current CBA also covers the 2025 season, so the two sides have one year to negotiate a new agreement.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy said, “With the historic 2024 WNBA season just around the corner, we are committed to working with our players and the WNBAPA to create a foundation that is fair for everyone and for years of growth and success.” I look forward to working on the new CBA we are building.” Engelbert said.
In his league briefing speech before the first leg of the final, Engelbert said the league was in a great position of strength, with new media rights deals signed and more corporate partners joining. She further stated that players are getting more marketing contracts and they are becoming household names.
The association said it was looking forward to a new economic model that would transform the current system, which imposes arbitrary and restrictive caps on player value and profits. Players want an equity-based model that grows and evolves as the league's business becomes more successful.
Other areas the union would like to see improved include pay, retirement benefits, better child care and family planning benefits.
“This is not a sudden wake-up call. This is the culmination of what we have been working on over the last few seasons,” said WNBPA Vice President Kelsey Plumb. “We have played a key role in the league's historic growth, but now we are moving away from the current system and demanding full transparency and a fair stake in the business we have built. Masu.”
