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WNBA and Players Enter Status Quo After CBA Deadline Passes Without a Deal

Talks continue under status-quo rules with the core dispute over gross versus net revenue sharing.

Overview

  • The deadline passed Friday night without an extension as both sides continued bargaining; players have not called a strike and the league is not moving toward a lockout, according to reports.
  • Under status quo, the prior CBA governs operations; the WNBA offered a free-agency moratorium and told teams they could send qualifying offers starting Sunday, though none are expected.
  • The league’s proposal ties compensation to net revenue, projecting 2026 average salaries above $530,000 and a maximum base near $1 million that could approach $2 million over the deal.
  • The union seeks roughly 30% of gross revenue and a 2026 team cap around $10.5 million, with the players’ percentage increasing over time.
  • With no agreement, key offseason events such as free agency, schedule release, and the Portland and Toronto expansion draft face likely delays that could compress the run-up to the 2026 season.