Former and current NBPA leaders Jaylen Brown and Chris Paul shared their perspectives during the 2025 All-Star Weekend on the ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations involving the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA). With talks continuing through the offseason, these discussions seek to shape the next agreement between the players’ union and the WNBA, focusing on revenue sharing and player rights.
The primary topic at this stage centers on the revenue-sharing model, with the players’ union emphasizing the need for a portion of gross revenue, while the WNBA management proposes a larger share from net revenue. This difference has contributed to a stalemate, leaving both sides actively negotiating toward a resolution.
Advice from NBA Leaders to WNBA Players on Negotiation Strategy
During an interview held in Chicago, Illinois, Chris Paul, a 12-time NBA All-Star and current NBPA vice president, and Jaylen Brown, also a vice president of the NBPA, were asked if they had advice for WNBA players as their union navigates these negotiations. Both offered insight rooted in their own experiences handling player labor agreements in the NBA.
Chris Paul emphasized the importance of solidarity among players, stressing that unity is critical when negotiating complex agreements that affect the entire league. He noted that differing opinions among players are natural but encouraged cohesion to strengthen their position.
Jaylen Brown highlighted the significance of players being well-informed and encouraged them to trust their judgment throughout the process. He urged the players to firmly advocate for their rights and compensation.
“Get what you deserve.” — Jaylen Brown, NBPA Vice President
“Unity…be together.” — Chris Paul, Former NBPA President
Negotiation Challenges and the Focus on Revenue Models
The core challenge in the CBA talks revolves around how revenue is shared between the players and the league. The WNBPA insists on securing a cut of gross revenue, which represents the total income before expenses, while the WNBA continues to maintain that a larger fraction of net revenue, or profits after expenses, is a better basis for distribution.
This divide has been a sticking point, slowing progress despite ongoing talks throughout the offseason. The outcomes of these negotiations will directly impact player salaries, benefits, and working conditions for seasons to come.
Significance of the Talks and What to Expect Going Forward
The resolutions reached during these collective bargaining discussions are pivotal for advancing players’ financial equity and the overall growth of the WNBA. Leaders like Chris Paul and Jaylen Brown provide valuable perspectives, drawing on their experiences from NBA negotiations to support the WNBA’s efforts in attaining fair agreements.
With this dialogue continuing, all eyes remain on how the WNBPA and WNBA will bridge their differences. A successful agreement will likely enhance player welfare and set a foundation for sustainable league development. As negotiations progress, player unity and informed decision-making will be essential components driving this process.
Former and current NBPA leaders, Chris Paul and Jaylen Brown on whether they have any advice for the WNBPA in their CBA negotiations:
Jaylen Brown: “Get what you deserve.”
Chris Paul: “Unity…be together” pic.twitter.com/yH4edEhUv9
— Natalie Esquire (@natfluential) February 16, 2026
