NEW YORK – A landmark collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and its players’ union has moved a significant step closer to reality with the signing of a term sheet. The agreement, poised to reshape the league for years to come, represents a major victory for the players and a bold statement about the growing value of women’s professional basketball. While ratification by the players and approval from the WNBA’s Board of Governors are still required, the signing of the term sheet signals a commitment from both sides to finalize a deal that will dramatically alter the financial landscape and working conditions for WNBA athletes.
The seven-year CBA, beginning with the current season and extending through 2032, isn’t simply an incremental improvement; it’s a transformational shift. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert described the agreement as “a defining moment in the WNBA’s 30-year history and all of women’s professional sports,” adding that it’s “a testament to that belief and to the tremendous progress we have achieved together.” The deal addresses key concerns raised by the players, including salary, benefits, travel and player agency, aiming to create a more sustainable and equitable league.
A Significant Boost to Player Compensation
Perhaps the most impactful aspect of the new CBA is the substantial increase in player compensation. The salary cap is projected to reach $7 million by the 2026 season, with average salaries exceeding $585,000. For the first time in WNBA history, top players will have the opportunity to earn over $1 million annually, with a potential “supermax” salary approaching $1.4 million. If revenue projections continue to climb, the salary cap could swell to $11 million by 2032, potentially pushing the maximum salary to $2.4 million, according to a person familiar with the deal who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
The minimum salary will also notice a considerable increase, rising from a range of $270,000 to $300,000 this year to $380,000 by 2032. The average salary is expected to surpass $1 million by the end of the agreement, before factoring in revenue sharing. This increase in earning potential will allow players to focus more on their craft and less on financial concerns, fostering a more competitive and stable league.
Beyond Salary: Improved Benefits and Working Conditions
The CBA extends beyond just salary increases, addressing crucial aspects of player well-being and professional support. Teams will continue to provide housing for players for the first three years of the agreement. From 2029-2030, housing will be provided for players earning $500,000 or less, and thereafter will be limited to developmental players. This addresses a long-standing concern about the financial burden of housing, particularly for players earning lower salaries.
A significant win for players is the codification of charter travel, a change expected to cost the league over $300 million over the life of the deal. This will eliminate the often grueling and disruptive commercial travel schedules that have historically plagued the WNBA. Expanded first-class travel accommodations for players across league events are also included. The league is also increasing life insurance benefits to over $700,000 per player and boosting team contributions to 401K retirement accounts. A one-time payment of $100,000 will be provided to retired players who have played 12 or more years in the league.
Rookie Contracts and Player Empowerment
The new CBA also includes provisions designed to empower younger players and provide greater flexibility. The No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft will earn $500,000, and all existing rookie-scale contracts will be adjusted to reflect the increased financial commitment to players. Rookie contracts will remain at four years, but players who achieve All-WNBA honors on their rookie deals will be eligible to receive the maximum salary in the fourth year of their contract if they sign a three-year extension. This means that stars like Caitlin Clark, potentially eligible in 2027, Paige Bueckers (2028), and Aliyah Boston (this season) could see their earning potential significantly accelerated.
the CBA strengthens player protections, including a salary cap exception for pregnancy and childbirth, and requires teams to obtain a player’s consent before trading a pregnant player. Starting in 2027, players with seven or more years of service will no longer be subject to the franchise tag, giving them greater control over their careers.
Looking Ahead: Ratification and Implementation
The next step is ratification by the players, which requires a simple majority vote. The WNBA Players Association has been holding information sessions with players, accommodating those currently competing overseas, to ensure everyone is informed about the details of the agreement. Simultaneously, the WNBA’s Board of Governors must approve the CBA. Both votes are expected to occur soon, with lawyers from both sides continuing to finalize the full language of the agreement. The league will also expand its regular season schedule to 50 games in 2027 and 2028, and up to 52 games from 2029-2032, building on the current 44-game schedule that begins May 8.
This CBA represents more than just a financial agreement; it’s an investment in the future of the WNBA and a recognition of the extraordinary talent and dedication of its players. It’s a signal to fans, sponsors, and the broader sports world that the WNBA is a league on the rise, committed to providing its athletes with the resources and support they deserve.
The WNBA and the WNBPA will continue to provide updates on the ratification process. Fans can uncover more information on the official WNBA website.
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