WNBA Stars Earn Massive Salary Increases in New CBA

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The WNBA and WNBPA recently signed a new collective bargaining agreement that will significantly increase the league's salary cap and player salaries starting in the 2026 season. Top stars like A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart are set to earn supermax contracts worth up to $1.4 million, while young stars on rookie deals like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Angel Reese will see their salaries jump to over $500,000.

Why it matters

The new CBA represents a major milestone for the WNBA, making it one of the most lucrative professional sports leagues. The substantial pay increases will help the league attract and retain top talent, improve player quality of life, and grow the sport's popularity and visibility.

The details

Under the new CBA, the 2026 WNBA salary cap will start at $7 million, up from $1.5 million in 2025. The average player salary will be around $600,000, and the supermax contract will be worth $1.4 million, up from $249,244. Top stars like A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Breanna Stewart are expected to earn supermax deals. Meanwhile, young stars on rookie contracts will also see massive pay bumps, with Caitlin Clark's salary jumping from $85,000 to $528,000, Paige Bueckers' from $80,000 to $500,000, and Angel Reese's from $75,000 to $350,000.

• The WNBA's 30th season begins on May 8, 2026.
• The 2026 WNBA Draft will take place on April 13, 2026.
• The WNBA free agency timeline for 2026 begins this week, with the designation period on April 6-7, the negotiation period on April 8-10, and official signings starting on April 11.

What’s next

The 2026 WNBA free agency period will officially open on Saturday, April 11, following the designation period on April 6-7 and the negotiation period on April 8-10.