WNBA players approve new CBA in unanimous vote
The WNBPA announced Monday that WNBA players have voted to ratify the terms of the 2026 collective bargaining agreement after the league and the union reached a verbal agreement on the terms of a new labor deal last week. According to a release from the union, more than 90 percent of the players participated in the vote, with unanimous support to approve the new CBA. “Too often, women have been told to be grateful for the opportunity,” the WNBPA wrote in a statement.
“This union sees it differently. It is about knowing our worth and having the courage to demand more, not just for ourselves, but for those coming next. “This transformational CBA delivers consequential economic progress and expanded benefits that support players on and off the court.
It builds a stronger foundation for today’s players, the next generation, and those who helped build the WNBA. It affirms the strength of our union and the power of our collective voice. “Now it is time to get back to the game and the fans we love, competing at the highest level, and showing exactly what this league can be.
” Next, the WNBA board of governors, which represents team owners, must sign off on the deal. After that, lawyers from both sides will execute the final agreement. The league is pursuing an expedited process to complete the CBA so the 2026 season can begin on time, with training camp opening on April 19 and the first regular-season games tipping off on May 8.
The WNBA also has to find time to conduct an expansion draft, a college draft and a free-agency signing period for more than 100 unrestricted free agents in the period between the official signing of the CBA and the start of training camp. The WNBA and the players’ association agreed in principle on a new CBA last week after more than a year of negotiations that culminated in a week-plus of extended in-person meetings in New York. The agreement brings massive financial changes to the league, including a salary structure tied to revenue sharing.