While the dreaded CBA deadline moment came and went, at the moment, it looks like things are headed in the right direction.

As per the WNBA's latest updates, “The current Collective Bargaining Agreement has expired, and negotiations with the Women’s National Basketball Players Association remain ongoing. As the league experiences a pivotal time of unprecedented popularity and growth, we recognize the importance of building upon that momentum.”

This time, there will be no further extension. Instead, the league now enters a “status quo” period, during which the current CBA will remain in effect. As Breanna Stewart revealed, "We’re just going to continue to negotiate in good faith."

That's what the WNBA statement echoed. “Our priority is a deal that significantly increases player salaries, enhances the overall player experience, and supports the long-term growth of the league for current and future generations of players and fans.”

So far, the league has offered the union increased salaries and a net revenue share of 70%. The union's demand for a 30% gross revenue share would result in a projected $700 million in losses for the league.

Yet the WNBPA believes paying 30% would still put the league in a “profitable position.” Not just that, the union has also released a statement accusing the WNBA of being “committed to undervaluing player contributions, dismissing player concerns, and running out the clock.” Still, the union remains confident it will find a “good deal” soon.

In The Meantime, The WNBA Is Continuing With Its Protocol

As the CBA has expired, the WNBA has told its general managers and executives to send out qualifying offers to free agents starting Sunday. Furthermore, the union and the league are negotiating a moratorium.

A moratorium would freeze major league business for a short time, including free agency, qualifying offers, and core player designations. This would enable the two parties to negotiate without any pressure, especially since the two sides remain far apart.

Written by

Yashika Dutta

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar