A potential storm is brewing in the world of women's basketball, and it's not on the court. The threat of a WNBA player strike is looming larger than ever, with sources revealing a 16-month stalemate in collective bargaining talks. The core issue? Revenue sharing, a topic that has divided the league and its players' union.
The union, authorized by an overwhelming 98% player vote, has been engaging in accelerated discussions with players about the potential consequences of a work stoppage. Breanna Stewart and other players had hoped for a resolution by early February, but progress has been slow. The executive committee, after considering recommendations, would make the final call on a strike, but no decision or date has been set in stone yet.
Team executives across the league are bracing for impact, anticipating a delay in the 2026 season, which is scheduled to start on May 8. While there have been verbal spats for months, the latest development is a significant turning point. The league's non-response to the union's proposal for a 30% player revenue share and a $10 million-plus salary cap has sparked frustration.
According to sources, the league calculated a $700 million loss over six years if they accepted the 30% split, which they deemed unnecessary to address. The WNBA officials believe they have already made significant concessions, including 'massive' salary upgrades.
The league's latest offer includes an average salary of over $1.3 million in 2026 (up from $249,244) and an average salary of $530,000 this season (up from $102,249), which could grow to $780,000 over the deal's duration. The WNBA also proposed a 70% share of net revenue, but the union argues this equates to 15% or less of gross revenue, making it an unacceptable deal.
The talks have hit a wall, with the league believing they've made repeated concessions. For example, they've agreed to eliminate the hard salary cap, implement a revenue-sharing model tied to business growth, and combine team and league revenue in the overall revenue share.
So, who will budge first? With the 2025 CBA expired since January 9, the league could lock out players, while the union is free to strike. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who oversees WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, has favored a softer approach, avoiding a lockout. The league has maintained a business-as-usual stance, releasing the 2026 schedule last week.
Players are anxious for a deal by February 1, especially with an expansion draft and over 100 free agents waiting in the wings. The union recently established WNBPA Player Hubs across the U.S. and Spain to ensure players can train and recover, regardless of league operations, in the event of a work stoppage.
Frustrated by the league's lack of urgency, the union is now actively exploring its next steps. The situation is tense, and the outcome could have a significant impact on the future of women's basketball.
And this is the part most people miss: the potential for a strike is a symptom of a much deeper issue - the value and recognition of women's sports. It's a controversial topic, and one that deserves our attention and discussion. What are your thoughts on this potential strike? Do you think the league is doing enough? Or is this a wake-up call for a broader conversation about gender equality in sports?
