WNBA Proposes $1.1M Max Salary in New CBA Negotiations
The WNBA is making strides in its collective bargaining negotiations, proposing a significant increase in player salaries and benefits. The latest proposal includes a maximum salary reaching over $1.1 million for multiple players per team. This deal is aimed at enhancing revenue sharing and player compensation in the league.
Details of the Proposal
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) introduces several key financial changes:
- The league minimum salary will exceed $220,000.
- The average salary will increase to over $460,000.
- More than 180 players will benefit from these salary increases, which will grow annually.
Important Dates
The current CBA is set to expire on October 31, 2025. However, the WNBA and the players’ union have agreed to extend negotiations until November 30. This extension allows additional time to finalize a deal that could greatly benefit players.
Background of Negotiations
Last year, players opted out of the existing CBA, aiming for improvements in revenue sharing, higher salaries, and better benefits. The last agreement, which was ratified in January 2020 following a 60-day extension, focused on player compensation but has since seen calls for further enhancements.
Future Outlook
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed optimism about the negotiations leading to a transformative deal. She hopes that by the 2026 All-Star Game, the enhancements from this CBA will be widely recognized.
This new proposal represents a pivotal moment for the WNBA as it seeks to foster a more equitable financial landscape for its players.
Reports from the Associated Press and ESPN confirmed these developments, highlighting the ongoing commitment to elevating the league’s competitive environment.
