NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has urged the WNBA and its players' union to expedite their negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) to avoid any potential work stoppages. Silver emphasized the need for urgency during the NBA All-Star weekend, acknowledging that the current pace of negotiations is close to the critical deadline. He expressed his desire to create pressure on both parties to reach an agreement before the last minute.
The WNBA has recently presented its latest proposal to the players' union, offering modest increases in revenue sharing and concessions on housing matters. However, the main issue of revenue sharing remains unresolved. The players seek approximately 30% of the gross revenue, while the league has proposed over 70% of the net revenue, considering expenses such as facility upgrades, charter flights, luxury accommodations, medical services, security, and arena maintenance.
Silver assured that the next CBA will bring a significant pay increase for WNBA players. He noted the positive progress made in recent weeks, with increased direct engagement between players and team owners. Silver's involvement behind the scenes aims to facilitate a productive deal-making process. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining momentum and not losing sight of the remarkable advancements in women's basketball.
The WNBA's offseason and regular-season schedules are under the microscope, with training camps set to begin in approximately two months. Silver highlighted the need to complete two drafts (expansion and collegiate) and incorporate free agency. Additionally, legal formalities must be addressed once a collective bargaining agreement is reached.
Despite the potential for a strike, as mentioned by Union President Nneka Ogwumike, Silver is committed to preventing any disruption to the league's recent success. The WNBA experienced record-breaking attendance and television audiences in the 2025 season, and Silver believes the league is on an upward trajectory in terms of fan interest, commercial success, and player popularity.
