Why WNBA Players Say the Two Sides Are Still “Far Apart”

The collective bargaining agreement of the WNBA has ended without a new arrangement, as discussions have halted on salary and revenue sharing, even with the league’s rising popularity.

The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement officially ended at midnight Friday, with the league and players’ union still at odds over key matters and no extension anticipated.

The deadline had been extended twice, yet negotiations did not result in an agreement. The league verified that discussions are in progress, labeling this a “critical juncture” due to increasing popularity and expansion.

“The existing Collective Bargaining Agreement has lapsed, and discussions with the Women’s National Basketball Players Association are still in progress,” the league stated in a release.

“With the league undergoing a critical phase of unmatched popularity and expansion, we acknowledge the significance of capitalizing on that momentum.” Our focus is on an agreement that greatly raises player salaries, improves the overall experience for players, and fosters the league’s long-term development for both current and future generations of players and supporters.

Is a WNBA Lockout or Strike Still on the Table?

Players remain skeptical that advancement is near.

Breanna Stewart acknowledged that the two parties are still “far apart,” and emphasized that a third extension was not an option. Although the players’ union has approved a possible strike, Stewart emphasized that it’s not about to happen — merely a tactic for leverage.

ESPN reports indicate that the league isn’t planning a lockout, as both parties are assured the 2026 season will occur.

Currently, the WNBA is in a ‘status quo’ phase, indicating that the terms of the expired agreement will stay effective as talks proceed.

At the heart of the conflict is money. The league suggested that players get 50–70% of net revenue, whereas the union demands a guaranteed share of gross revenue — a notable difference.

In its 30-year history, the WNBA has never forfeited games due to labor disputes, but the hold-up complicates an already tight offseason. Expansion drafts for Portland and Toronto, along with free agency and the college draft, now have stricter timelines to adhere to.