Could the WNBA CBA fallout lead to a lockout season?

In a move for equity and fair working conditions, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has chosen to opt out of the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the WNBA, raising concerns about a possible lockout at the end of the 2025 season.

This decision, announced Oct. 21, one day after Game 5 of the WNBA Finals, is a call for a modernized agreement that aligns with the league’s recent growth and trajectory while addressing longstanding player grievances.

Current WNBA CBA and new demands

Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark expresses her feelings to the officials during the game against the Washington Mystics on July 10, 2024 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis, IN. (Photo/David Dixon)

The existing agreement, which expires 2027, now gives players and league representatives until the end of next season to negotiate terms that better reflect the surging popularity of the WNBA. Recent statistics show viewership rising by 170% on ESPN, a 48% increase in attendance and CBS Sports viewership up by 86%.

WNBA players argue that their financial compensation, health benefits and working conditions lag behind this growth.

WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike believes the CBA is outdated.

“The world has evolved since 2020,” Ogwumike said in a statement.

The WNBPA advocates for more equitable salaries, improved working conditions and expanded health benefits.

Ceaseless workplace issues

Kamilla Cardoso during her first regular season WNBA Game. — Chicago Sky center Kamilla Cardoso (10) reacts to teammates on the bench during a WNBA basketball game against the Indiana Fever Saturday, June 1, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Long-standing work conditions have been another source of player dissatisfaction.

Los Angeles Sparks forward Deairca Hamby is a notable voice, highlighting the importance of a fair CBA. Hamby raised concerns about treatment during her time with the Las Vegas Aces, a situation that escalated to a league complaint and legal action.

Similarly, Seattle Storm’s Skylar Diggins-Smith voiced frustrations regarding maternity leave policies with the Phoenix Mercury in 2023, drawing attention to inadequate provisions for players balancing family and career.

Unrivaled: A new option

LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 15: Napheesa Collier #24, Nneka Ogwumike #30, Breanna Stewart #30, Brittney Griner #42, Ezi Magbegor #13, Satou Sabally #0, Sabrina Ionescu #20, Jewell Loyd #24, Kahleah Copper #2, Kelsey Mitchell #0 and Courtney Vandersloot #22 of Team Stewart pose for a portrait before the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game on July 15, 2023 at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Adding to the dynamic landscape is “Unrivaled,” a new league founded by WNBA forwards Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier.

Beginning in January 2025, Unrivaled’s 3-on-3 format and its promise of equity stakes for early joiners are seen as transformative. With high-profile recruits like Caitlin Clark in discussions for seven-figure contracts and equity offers, the new league could offer WNBA players an alternative during the offseason. The new league could serve as a catalyst for better terms in the new CBA.