WNBA Players Authorize Strike Amidst CBA Negotiations
On 18 December 2025, WNBA players authorized their union's executive council to call a strike if necessary during ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) talks. The vote saw a 93% turnout with 98% of those voting in favor of authorizing a strike. This move provides union negotiators with increased leverage in negotiations with the league and teams but does not constitute an immediate strike.
The current CBA is set to expire on 9 January, and talks have already been extended as key issues remain unresolved. Central concerns include player salaries and revenue sharing arrangements. The league has proposed a maximum salary structure with a $1 million base and revenue sharing that could raise top player earnings to over $1.2 million in 2026. Players are also advocating for improved child care and retirement benefits, with revenue sharing remaining the main sticking point in the discussions.
A strike could potentially delay the expansion draft and the start of free agency. The new season is expected to begin in late April or early May. Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark highlighted the significance of the talks, calling them the biggest moment in WNBA history and emphasizing the high stakes involved for the players and league.
