WNBA, Players Union Reach Historic New CBA Deal Weeks Before New Season – Report

Last Updated:March 18, 2026, 4:28 PM IST

WNBA and players’ union reach a landmark CBA agreement just weeks before the 30th season, promising transformative change for players across the league.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert (AFP)

After months of intense negotiations, the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association have reached a verbal agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), just 51 days before the league’s 30th season tips off.

As reported by ESPNthe breakthrough was confirmed by commissioner Cathy Engelbert and WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson, alongside union leaders including Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart, Alysha Clark, and Brianna Turner.

“The progress made in these discussions marks a transformative step forward for players and the league,” Engelbert told reporters, “and it’s underscoring a shared commitment to the continued growth of the game.

“It’s [been] a process, but we’re very proud to be leading in women’s sports, and these players are amazing, and we’re going to have an amazing 30th season tipping off in May.”

While full details remain under wraps, both sides emphasized the deal’s long-term impact on player welfare and league growth.

Players Claim a Big Win

For the players, this agreement is about more than numbers.

Notably, Ogwumike highlighted that incoming players will now enter the league without a “sense of lack”.

“We’re just really grateful to be able to come to a deal,” Ogwumike said. “We’re proud of ourselves. And quite frankly, we always told you all we were going to stand on business, and that’s what this looks like.”

Clark echoed that sentiment:

“What we just accomplished is going to change the lives of so many players,” Clark said.

What Happens Next?

The agreement is not final yet.

A formal term sheet still needs to be completed and must be ratified by both the players and the league’s board of governors. Once approved, it will become the sixth CBA in WNBA history — following previous deals in 1999, 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2020.

Season On Track

Crucially, the lengthy negotiations haven’t disrupted the calendar.

Training camp begins April 19, preseason tips off April 25, and the regular season starts May 8 — marking the WNBA’s milestone 30th year.

Read More