The WNBA and its players’ union have reached a new collective bargaining agreement that could usher in a historic pay boost, with the potential to bring million-dollar salaries to the league for the first time.
In a statement, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said that the two sides had “aligned on key elements of a new CBA."
According to ESPN reporter Shams Charania, the new CBA will have a salary cap that starts at $7 million, which is 1.5 million less than it was before. Regarding players' salaries, the supermax would be $1.4 million, and the average salary would be $600,000, with a minimum above $300,000.
Details of a landmark WNBA collective bargaining agreement, per ESPN sources:
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 18, 2026
- New salary cap starting at $7 million, up from $1.5 million
- Average revenue share of nearly 20% across deal
- Supermax starting at $1.4M
- Average salary in range of $600K, minimum above $300K
This deal is expected to greatly increase player salaries. When the league starts its new season in May, this could be the first time that fans see million-dollar WNBA players take to the court.
"The progress made in these discussions marks a transformative step forward for players and the league," Engelbert said in a statement.
WNPA president Nneka Ogwumike said she's also glad to see the change.
"For the first time player salaries are tied to a truly meaningful share of league revenue, driving exponential growth in the salary cap, increasing average compensation beyond half a million dollars and raising the standard across facilities, staffing and support," she said in a statement.
Extremely grateful for this group and many others for their dedication, passion, and countless hours of collaboration. A lot goes on behind the scenes, and all the hard work of this team has culminated in a historic day for women's sports. ? pic.twitter.com/baVBId6O1d
— WNBA (@WNBA) March 18, 2026
On X, the WNBA shared a photo of the deal being made in a board room.
Then, the WNBPA shared a video on their Instagram stories of their members celebrating in the boardroom. The clip was later shared on Reddit.
@nowtoronto The Toronto Tempo’s inaugural season is officially greenlit after the #WNBA and its players finally signed a new collective bargaining agreement. #TorontoTempo #WNBPA Read more at the link in bio ?
♬ original sound - Now Toronto - Now Toronto
"DESERVED," one person commented on their win.
"That's such a huge jump! Love to see these women get the paper they've earned," another added.
A third said, "Incredible. So overdue, but I’m glad we’re finally here. Onward and continued upwards for their salary!"
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