WNBA Races Clock to Secure CBA by March 10 Amid Rising Tensions

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Clock ticking as WNBA, players’ union haggle over new CBA

League Issues Firm Deadline (Image Credits: Pixabay)

The WNBA warned its players’ union last week that negotiators must reach a framework for a new collective bargaining agreement by March 10 to prevent disruptions to the 2026 season.[1][2]

League Issues Firm Deadline

Officials delivered the message during a virtual bargaining session on February 23. More than 50 players joined the call alongside union leaders, league staff, and owners.[2] The timeline stems from pressing offseason needs. An agreement would clear the path for two expansion drafts, free agency involving 80 percent of players, and training camps set to open April 19.[1]

Regular-season tipoff remains scheduled for May 8. Yet ratification could take weeks even after a term sheet emerges. Negotiations already prompted two extensions of the prior deal. The league released its 2026 schedule last month despite the uncertainty.[2]

Revenue Sharing Dominates Standoff

Discussions have dragged for 16 to 18 months since the union opted out of the 2020 CBA. Revenue sharing emerged as the core dispute. Players seek a slice of gross revenue, while the league prefers sharing net proceeds after expenses.[1]

The union’s latest counteroffer, sent late last Friday, proposed an average 26 percent of gross revenue over the deal’s term. That marked a concession from 27.5 percent floated earlier in February. It paired with a $9.5 million salary cap for 2026. The league countered with 70 percent of net revenue and a $5.65…

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Author : Matthias Binder

Publish date : 2026-03-02 19:40:00

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