The WNBA is at a pivotal moment as the league and the players union work to finalize a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that could reshape the financial landscape for players and the league alike. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the latest proposal includes a maximum salary exceeding $1.1 million — a figure that wouldn’t be limited to just one star player per team, but could grow to benefit multiple players annually. This would mark a substantial increase over current salary levels and represents a major milestone for women’s professional basketball.
In addition to the new maximum, the proposal suggests a league minimum of more than $220,000 and an average salary exceeding $460,000. These numbers would apply from the first year of the CBA to over 180 players and are designed to increase steadily throughout the life of the agreement. Beyond salaries, revenue sharing is a core component of the proposal, aligning player compensation more closely with the league’s overall financial success — a key priority for the WNBPA.
The timing of these negotiations is critical. With the previous CBA set to expire on October 31, 2025, both sides agreed to a 30-day extension through November 30 to finalize an agreement. The delay has already put pressure on the 2026 season’s schedule, with offseason events like the draft lottery, draft, and free agency potentially at risk if a deal isn’t reached in time. While the league and players are working toward a fair and transformative agreement, uncertainty remains as the deadline approaches.
If ratified, the new CBA could be revolutionary for the WNBA. Higher salaries, multiple super-max spots per team, and revenue sharing could not only retain top talent but also attract future stars, boosting the league’s profile and growth. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver have both expressed optimism about the potential deal, highlighting the league’s commitment to fair compensation for players.
The next few weeks will be crucial for the WNBA, the players, and fans alike. A successful agreement could pave the way for an exciting and financially rewarding 2026 season, while delays could bring challenges to schedules and planning. Either way, the WNBA is poised to enter a new era where player compensation and league growth go hand
in hand.
