Tensions are escalating in the ongoing labor dispute between the WNBA and the players’ union as the current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire next week without a new deal in place. The conflict intensified rapidly on Tuesday and Wednesday with both sides exchanging criticisms.
The dispute began when NBA commissioner Adam Silver expressed confidence in reaching a new agreement, mentioning significant salary increases for WNBA players. However, his comment on the revenue share comparison between the two leagues sparked backlash from the union.
In response, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) criticized the league for aiming to constrain labor costs through an artificial salary system disconnected from the players’ business growth. The union’s executive director, Terri Carmichael Jackson, emphasized the disparity in the proposed fixed salary system and revenue sharing plan.
The WNBA countered by highlighting its proposal for an uncapped revenue-sharing model directly linked to the league’s performance, offering a compensation increase tied to revenue growth without limitations. The league expressed frustration over the union’s misrepresentations and delay accusations.
Negotiations are ongoing to reach a resolution before the October 31 deadline, with recent meetings held in New York. The players had opted out of the previous agreement to seek enhancements such as increased revenue sharing, higher salaries, and improved benefits. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the league’s commitment to securing a transformative deal with substantial salary and benefit improvements.
The discussions were already strained following criticisms from union vice president Napheesa Collier in her exit interview after her team’s playoff elimination. The Toronto Tempo are slated to join the league in the upcoming 2026 season.
