WNBA Players Set for High-Stakes Meeting Amid CBA Negotiation Tensions
PHILADELPHIA – As the threat of a strike grows, tensions are running high among players and league officials. With the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement negotiations stalled, a crucial meeting is set for Monday in New York. Several star players are expected to attend, along with key figures from both the league and the players’ association.
The WNBPA president, Nneka Ogwumike, will join fellow players like Kelsey Plum and Nafeesa Collier. Key union leaders, members of the WNBA’s Labor Relations Board, some team owners, and board of directors will all be present. This meeting has been described by some as potentially pivotal to the negotiations.
No matter how things unfold, veteran Azura Stevens is prepared for a strike. She expressed a strong stance, saying, “Even if the league decides to play without an agreement, I’m financially stable thanks to Unrivaled and other income sources. This is their loss, really. It’s frustrating that it’s taken this long.”
The league still hasn’t reacted to the proposal put forward by the union over a month ago. Reports suggest that the lack of response is because the WNBA is anticipating a “more realistic” counter-offer.
With less than 100 days until the 2026 season kicks off, players are increasingly disheartened by the slow progress. “I’m honestly a bit upset,” admitted Natasha Cloud. “It’s frustrating for all of us. The way the league is handling this, it’s hard to ignore their indifference towards our needs and directions.”
The union has been preparing for a potential strike since players moved away from the previous CBA following the 2024 season.
However, uncertainty about the WNBA’s future has left some players, like Thug Sutton, feeling anxious. “There is a lot of concern and unknowns. I don’t want to be caught off guard, so I’m just focusing on taking it one day at a time,” she said, emphasizing how being a part of Unrivaled has provided her with some mental clarity during this situation.
The current CBA expired on January 9, following failed negotiations for an extension.
Last week, the WNBA announced its 2026 schedule, continuing operations under the current conditions, albeit freezing free agency indefinitely.
In the latest proposal, the WNBA offered players a 70% cut of their net revenue share, equating to about 15% of total league and team revenue, along with a $5 million salary cap. Players, however, are pushing for approximately 30% of total revenue and a $10.5 million salary cap.
The union is also advocating for various other issues, including the elimination of the core designation and the league’s proposed maintenance of team-funded housing.
“The uncertainty can really weigh on players,” Sutton added. “We are just hoping for the best.”
Cloud, during her press conference appearance, emphasized the players’ determination for this new contract. “There’s a new TV deal on the horizon that hasn’t even been mentioned to us. If people understood what we’re being offered versus what’s truly out there, it would upset many.”
She insisted, “We aren’t going anywhere until you do your part. The pressure is now on the WNBA and everyone involved in the negotiations.”
Plum, meanwhile, has tempered expectations but remains hopeful. “I don’t expect immediate results from Monday’s meeting. It’s about opening up dialogue and strengthening relationships. Often, conversations can get jumbled. Sitting down face-to-face can help clarify feelings and hopefully, lead us forward.”
