The WNBA has communicated to the players’ union that a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) should be finalized by March 10 to ensure the upcoming season begins as planned, according to reported updates from a virtual negotiating session held Monday. This target aims to allow the league and union sufficient time to complete offseason activities without affecting the 2026 schedule.
More than 50 players participated in the call where league officials emphasized the importance of meeting this timeline in order to proceed with free agency, handle a two-team expansion draft involving the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, and avoid disruptions to training camps and game dates.
Key Offseason Activities Dependent on New Agreement
The current CBA discussions are critical as the league prepares for several major offseason events. Free agency has yet to commence, and the league must stage an expansion draft for the newly added Toronto and Portland teams. The college draft remains scheduled for April 13, with training camps expected to open six days afterward. The first regular-season games are set for May 8, all contingent on a finalized agreement.
Earlier in the day, the players’ union informed ESPN that the league hit a revenue milestone in 2025 that will trigger player revenue sharing, with an $8 million payout to be distributed among players across the 13 teams that played last season. Negotiations continue to focus on revenue sharing and provisions for player housing, which remain major areas of disagreement.
Main Points of Negotiation in Current Talks
The union has proposed changes in its latest counteroffer, including adjustments concerning revenue sharing. A significant sticking point involves whether players receive a percentage of gross versus net revenue, with the players’ union advocating for gross revenue cuts and the league offering a share based on net revenue. These financial details are central to resolving the ongoing CBA talks.
Importance of Meeting the March 10 Target
Successfully concluding the CBA by the March 10 deadline is vital to maintaining the league’s planned 2026 calendar. Any delay could affect player preparations, player movement, and the logistics of integrating two new expansion teams. The deadline reflects a mutual goal to avoid disruptions to a highly anticipated season that carries implications for the league’s growth and stability.
