The deadline for the current collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and the players union was extended to January 9 after reaching an agreement just before the previous deadline expired on Sunday night. Both parties have the option to terminate the extended agreement with a 48-hour notice, similar to the previous extension.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the league’s latest proposal outlines a guaranteed $1 million US base salary in 2026, with projected revenue sharing expected to increase total earnings for top players to over $1.2 million. The average player salary is anticipated to surpass $500,000, while the minimum salary is projected to exceed $225,000 in the initial year. The salary cap is set to rise to $5 million in 2026, linked directly to revenue growth under each year of the CBA.
A 30-day extension from the original October 31 deadline was announced by both sides, with the extended deadline expiring just before midnight on Sunday. Meetings were held over the holiday weekend in an effort to reach an agreement, following the union’s proposal for a six-week extension, which was longer than the league’s initial suggestion.
The union expressed expectations of significant progress from the league within the extension period. Considering the lack of imminent events aside from the expansion draft for Portland and Toronto, it is unlikely that either party will opt to terminate the extension. Free agency is the next major focus for both sides, typically taking place in late January. This offseason is unique, with almost all of the league’s veterans becoming free agents, having signed one-year deals last season in anticipation of substantial salary increases with the new CBA.
Negotiations have revolved around updated proposals, with salaries and revenue sharing being key points of contention. The league’s recent proposal included a maximum salary of $1.1 million, allowing multiple players on each team to reach that figure over the years. Players are also advocating for enhanced retirement benefits, establishing charter flight travel standards, and setting a minimum team facilities standard.
After the previous CBA expired in 2019, a 60-day extension was agreed upon, leading to the eventual ratification of a new agreement in January 2020.