The WNBA and its players union are in a delicate dance, with a virtual CBA meeting marking a step forward in negotiations. But the road to a new collective bargaining agreement is still fraught with challenges, particularly in revenue sharing and housing. The league's latest proposal, sent on Friday, offers 70% net revenue for players, a significant step up from the union's previous request of over 30%. However, the union's counteroffer, seeking an average of 27.5% of gross revenue, has left the league insisting that this figure remains unrealistic, threatening 'hundreds of millions of dollars of losses for our teams'. The players, however, are set to receive $8 million from last season's revenue sharing, a first in the league's history. This money will be distributed by the teams and reimbursed by the league, with players deciding how much each will receive. The union has 60 days to devise a plan for dispersing the funds. The current CBA, which has since expired, stipulated that players received 50% of shared revenue above a predetermined threshold, minus 30% for expenses. However, the league's latest offer suggests a shift in housing responsibilities, with franchises paying for players on minimum salary contracts, rookies, and developmental players. If a new CBA isn't agreed upon soon, the 2026 season could be delayed, impacting both players and the league. With 80% of players in the league as free agents this offseason, a delay would mean missed revenue, sponsorships, television money, and fan support. The tension is palpable, and the question remains: can the two sides find common ground before the season begins?
