NBA Union Leaders Advise WNBA Players on CBA Negotiations

Jaylen Brown and Chris Paul emphasize unity and fair revenue sharing as key to successful WNBPA talks

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Former and current NBPA leaders Jaylen Brown and Chris Paul shared insights on the ongoing WNBPA collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, stressing the importance of player unity and fair revenue sharing models as critical to securing a successful deal.

Why it matters

The outcomes of these WNBPA CBA negotiations will directly impact player salaries, benefits, and working conditions in the WNBA for seasons to come. Advice from experienced NBA labor leaders like Brown and Paul can help guide the WNBPA toward achieving equitable agreements.

The details

The primary sticking point in the talks centers on the revenue-sharing model, with the WNBPA pushing for a portion of gross revenue, while the WNBA management proposes a larger share from net revenue. This divide has contributed to a stalemate, leading to ongoing negotiations throughout the offseason.

  • The CBA negotiations have been ongoing since the end of the 2025 WNBA season.

The players

Jaylen Brown

A vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) and an NBA All-Star.

Chris Paul

A 12-time NBA All-Star and current vice president of the NBPA.

Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA)

The labor union representing players in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)

The professional women's basketball league in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Get what you deserve.”

— Jaylen Brown, NBPA Vice President (Twitter)

“Unity...be together.”

— Chris Paul, Former NBPA President (Twitter)

What’s next

The WNBPA and WNBA will continue negotiating throughout the offseason, with the goal of reaching a new CBA agreement before the start of the 2026 WNBA season.

The takeaway

The WNBPA CBA negotiations highlight the importance of player unity and fair revenue sharing models in securing equitable agreements that support the growth and sustainability of the WNBA. Advice from experienced NBA labor leaders like Jaylen Brown and Chris Paul can provide valuable guidance to the WNBPA during this critical process.