WNBA Owners Ratify 7-Year Collective Bargaining Agreement

New deal represents landmark labor agreement for the league and its players.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 5:41am

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The WNBA Board of Governors unanimously ratified the terms of a new 7-year collective bargaining agreement on Tuesday, a day after the players also unanimously approved the deal. The agreement will run through the 2032 season and marks a bold new era for the league, according to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.

Why it matters

The new CBA represents a significant milestone for the WNBA, providing long-term labor stability and the opportunity to build on the league's growing momentum. The agreement will impact everything from player salaries and benefits to expansion plans and the upcoming season schedule.

The details

Lawyers are now working to finalize the full terms of the new agreement. Key next steps include an expansion draft for two new teams in Toronto and Portland, free agency for over 80% of the league's players, and the college draft scheduled for April 13. Teams will have a short window to prepare for the regular season, which is set to tip off on May 8.

  • The WNBA Board of Governors unanimously ratified the new CBA on Tuesday, March 25, 2026.
  • The WNBA players unanimously approved the 7-year agreement a day earlier, on Monday, March 24, 2026.
  • The new CBA will begin this season and run through the 2032 season.

The players

Cathy Engelbert

WNBA Commissioner who stated the new CBA marks the beginning of a bold new era for the league.

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What they’re saying

“This marks the beginning of a bold new era of the WNBA — one made possible by the passion and dedication of the players, team owners, fans, investors, partners and the entire WNBA family.”

— Cathy Engelbert, WNBA Commissioner

What’s next

An expansion draft for the new Toronto and Portland teams is expected to take place around the time of the Final Four. Free agency will then open, with over 80% of the league's players becoming free agents. The college draft is scheduled for April 13 in New York.

The takeaway

The new 7-year WNBA collective bargaining agreement represents a landmark labor deal that will provide long-term stability and growth opportunities for the league and its players. It marks an important milestone as the WNBA prepares to tip off its 30th season.