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Earlier this week the WNBPA sent off a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) proposal to the WNBA that appeared to offer concessions on two key topics: revenue sharing and team-provided housing. A source familiar with the proposal told ESPN the players’ union is now asking for 27.5% of gross revenue — revenue before expenses are deducted — over the course of the agreement. In December, the union asked for 31% of gross revenue, a plan that would have started with 28% in Year 1 of the agreement.
However, it doesn’t seem the deal entirely squares with what the WNBA is hoping to agree to. A source who is familair with negotiations told High Post Hoops the latest proposal from the WNBPA would result in losses of $460 million over the lifetime of the agreement, and that the only way both parties will be able to reach a deal that ensures continued investment and growth into the WNBA and that provides a financially responsible framework is a stronger compromise.
In an interview with USA Today Sports this week, Collier told the outlet she believes there will be a 2026 WNBA season, but not without more movement. As she put it, “Well, someone’s gonna have to fold, aren’t they?” Collier also told the outlet the players plan to remain firm in their demands to the WNBA.
The WNBA believe the league has offered a compromise
The same source also told High Post Hoops the WNBA has attempted to compromise with the players throughout CBA negotiations, which began in October 2025 after the January 2020 CBA expired.
Per the source, the league has offered brand-new uncapped revenue-sharing system tied to both league and team revenue, a salary cap that grows with league and team revenue growth, an average player salary of more than $535,000 in the first year that would grow to more than $775,000 in 2031, and a maximum salary of nearly $1.3 million in the first year that would grow to nearly $2 million in 2031.
The league’s proposals have also included a significant increase to all existing rookie scale contracts. This would mean that the first pick in the 2023 draft would have her 2026 salary increase to more than $541,000. Additional compromises and offers have included improved facilities with universally minimum standards, enhanced team staffing requirements, charter flights and first class flights for all league events, developmental rosters, and increased 401(k) contributions, salary cap exceptions for injured and pregnant players, a recognition payment for legends, and more.
