The WNBA players union and league officials will hold their first in-person collective bargaining meeting Thursday in Indianapolis, with negotiations reportedly stalled over salary increases and revenue sharing. The current CBA expires after this season, leaving most players as potential free agents.
Phoenix Mercury forward Satou Sabally criticized the league’s initial proposal during recent negotiations. Union president Nneka Ogwumike expressed optimism that face-to-face discussions could accelerate progress after months of document exchanges between union and league staff.
“We got a proposal from the league, which was honestly a slap in the face,” said Sabally.
The union seeks major changes in three primary areas: increased salaries, revenue sharing, and expanded roster sizes. Players have specifically questioned why the league’s new $250 million expansion fees are not reflected in revenue-sharing agreements despite unprecedented growth across attendance and viewership metrics.
The WNBA recently secured a $2.2 billion media rights deal beginning next season and plans to expand to 18 teams by 2030. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the need for sustainable economic modeling while acknowledging the transformational nature of potential changes.
“It’s interesting that there’s a $250 million expansion fee, and there’s no openness to have that be reflected in revenue share that goes to the players, especially as we’re experiencing growth,” said Ogwumike.
The union submitted its initial proposal in February, with the league responding last month after what Ogwumike described as an unexpectedly long delay. Players including Napheesa Collier and Angel Reese have mentioned potential walkout scenarios if negotiations extend beyond October.
“We’ll get something done and it’ll be transformational. These things take time,” said Engelbert.
Union vice president Breanna Stewart acknowledged the challenging timing of negotiations during the season while emphasizing the importance of reaching an agreement before the October deadline.
