The start of the Women's National Basketball Association season in May is under a cloud of uncertainty, as the league has not formally addressed the players' union's collective bargaining proposal submitted last December, according to a recent report by Front Office Sports. This silence from the league side, nearly a month after the union's submission, signals a significant impasse in ongoing discussions that began in June 2025.
The core of the dispute revolves around crucial financial terms and league structure, particularly the players' request for a 30% share of gross revenues and a salary cap of $10.5 million, starkly contrasting with the league's previous offer of 70% of net revenues and a $5 million cap for the initial year. These divergent financial expectations, alongside unresolved logistical challenges such as the need for an expansion draft, free agency period, and the amateur draft before the season, complicate the path forward. Furthermore, accommodating the FIBA World Cup in September adds another layer to the scheduling complexities, all of which must be settled swiftly to avoid jeopardizing the season's start.
Despite these hurdles, the WNBA holds a remarkable record of never having a season impacted by a work stoppage in its 29-year history. This current situation, however, highlights the critical need for both the league and the players' union to engage constructively and reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Such a resolution would not only safeguard the upcoming season but also propel the league towards greater financial stability and recognition for its athletes, ultimately enhancing the sport's growth and appeal to a wider audience.