NEW YORK — The president of the WNBA players’ union, Nneka Ogwumike, expressed that critical negotiations are still unresolved, threatening the timely start of the 2026 season. Despite the delays, she assured confidence that the season will ultimately take place, contingent on resolving key issues in the new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Ogwumike emphasized the players’ strong desire to compete this year, stating,
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I know our players 100 per cent want to play this year,
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in a detailed interview Friday with The Associated Press. “
We want a season.
”
Current Status and Major Hurdles in CBA Discussions
The main sticking point between the league and the union remains revenue sharing, which has stalled progress on finalizing the new agreement. The upcoming season is scheduled to begin on May 8, but before that several significant events must occur, including the expansion draft, free agency period, and rookie draft.
Ogwumike highlighted the pivotal nature of resolving revenue sharing, saying,
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We made the point that once we nail this, we can get everything else done,
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indicating that agreement on this front could accelerate resolution of other issues.
The players’ proposal calls for about 30 percent of the league’s gross revenue—the total generated before deducting expenses—in the first year. In contrast, the league’s last offer suggested over 70 percent of net revenue, which accounts for deductions such as upgraded facilities, charter flights, premium hotel accommodations, medical care, security, and arenas.
According to Ogwumike, the union has been waiting more than six weeks for a response to their most recent proposal, adding,
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I think that’s really what the players are considering now, is that the lack of movement from the league side is truly disappointing,
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underscoring the frustration within the negotiations.
League’s Response and Proposal Details
A source familiar with the talks revealed last month that the league viewed the union’s latest proposal as similar to a previous submission, which led to the absence of a prompt response. Following a three-hour negotiation meeting at NBA offices, the union anticipated receiving an updated proposal shortly.
The league’s most recent offer guarantees a maximum base salary of $1 million for the 2026 season, which could reach $1.3 million through revenue sharing. This marks a substantial increase from the existing $249,000 baseline and has the potential to approach $2 million over the course of the agreement.
The presentation shared with players also identified 37 areas where the league is amenable to concessions. These include adding two developmental player positions per team, granting pregnant players the option to refuse trades, enhancing guaranteed contracts, and formalizing charter flights alongside other luxury travel amenities.
Potential Consequences of Negotiation Delays
If an agreement is not reached promptly, the 2026 season’s start may be postponed. Negotiations have already delayed significant preseason activities like the expansion draft involving Toronto and Portland.
Considering the last CBA was announced in January 2020, roughly one month after agreement, reaching a deal now could require about two months before free agency commences—a period originally set to begin last month. With approximately 80 percent of players becoming free agents this offseason, this negotiation phase represents an unprecedented opportunity for player transfers in WNBA history.
A delay poses risks to both parties, as missed games would result in lost revenue, diminished sponsorship deals, decreased television earnings, and lower fan engagement.
Union Leadership Engages with Players Amid Talks
Ogwumike, who is serving her third term as union president, noted that while waiting for the league’s counterproposal has been frustrating, it has allowed valuable time for union leaders to communicate directly with players. Recently, she was in Nashville with union leadership during Athletes Unlimited events to gauge player sentiment.
She remarked,
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I actually like the fact that we’ve had these six weeks now, still waiting for a proposal. It’s given us the gift of time,
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and added,
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And so, you know, in December, after the strike authorization vote, we were able to meet in Miami and talk to players.
”
Strike Authorization Remains a Consideration but Not Imminent
Players authorized the union to strike in December, though Ogwumike stressed that a strike is not currently imminent. The union did, however, release a social media video referencing the 1964 NBA All-Star Game strike, which coincides with the upcoming NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Regarding the possibility of a strike, she said,
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Having the strike on the table is something that we’re very much aware of, but there’s so many more conversations that have to happen,
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and continued,
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You know, we’re not just going to say, `Hey, today’s the day (we’ll strike).’ You know, I think that’s what we’re demonstrating right now is negotiating in good faith.
”
Implications and Outlook for the WNBA Season
The ongoing discussions surrounding the WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement carry significant implications for players, teams, and fans alike. The successful resolution of revenue sharing will likely be the catalyst for settling the remaining issues, enabling free agency and draft events to proceed on schedule.
The magnitude of potential player movement this offseason underscores the importance of a timely agreement, as the league’s growth and player compensation are poised to mark a historic progression. Both the union and the league face pressure to conclude talks swiftly to avoid disruption of the 2026 season, preserving revenue streams and maintaining fan interest in the expanding WNBA landscape.
Nneka Ogwumike and WNBPA staff went to Nashville tonight to check in on Athletes Unlimited players alongside fellow executive committee members Alysha Clark and Brianna Turner, discussing ongoing CBA negotiations. Will be interesting to see what comes out of what a source… pic.twitter.com/nwgtP6pwWc
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) February 6, 2026
