The WNBA and its players union engaged in extended negotiations, with talks extending two days past the league's target deadline for completing a term sheet to avoid scheduling impacts for the 2026 season. WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike reported that players are sensing progress and remain committed to negotiations. The league's latest proposal includes a salary cap starting at $6.2 million, growing throughout the deal's duration. Average player compensation would reach $570,000 in Year 1 and $850,000 in Year 6, with maximum compensation exceeding $1.3 million in Year 1 and approaching $2 million in Year 6. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert characterized the proposal as historic and transformational, noting players would receive over 70% of net revenue while maintaining league financial health.
"At the end of the day, we want a season. We want to play. We've heard that from the other side as well. We need to see a more robust demonstration of that as we continue on in these negotiations."
"Our proposal on the table is a really historic and transformational deal for these players. We're proud of the deal we have on the table. I think it's huge gains for the players, while balancing that with the health of the league."
"As a former player, I don't know that I ever thought I would see the day that such a transformational deal would be offered and on the table for these players, and I'm proud of that."
Read at ESPN.com
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