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WNBA Talks Stagnate Over Players’ Demand for Growth-Linked Pay

Tense talks over how to divide booming revenues must conclude before the October contract deadline.

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The message from Caitlin Clark and other players to the league was clear at the recent WNBA All-Star Game. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images/TNS)
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Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers and other WNBA All-Stars are openly campaigning for salary increases next season.

Overview

  • Players rejected the league’s fixed-percentage salary proposal during recent in-person sessions, insisting on a revenue-share model tied to the WNBA’s record growth.
  • Over 40 athletes wore “Pay Us What You Owe Us” T-shirts at All-Star weekend to spotlight demands for increased salary structures and benefits.
  • The current collective bargaining agreement, opted out last October, expires on October 31, 2025, and a failure to reach a new deal could trigger a lockout threatening the 2026 season.
  • The WNBA has reported national viewership up 23 percent, attendance up 26 percent and merchandise sales up 40 percent, bolstered by an 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights deal and planned expansion to 18 teams by 2030.
  • Union leaders are preparing contingency plans with off-season opportunities in Unrivaled 3x3 and Athletes Unlimited to protect player earnings if a stoppage occurs.