WNBA Reaches Historic CBA Deal

Agreement Boosts Salaries, Benefits, and Revenue Sharing for Women's Basketball Players

Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:37am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The WNBA and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have reached a groundbreaking seven-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that significantly increases player salaries, benefits, and revenue sharing. The deal represents a major step forward for women's professional sports, empowering players and challenging systemic inequalities.

Why it matters

This CBA is about more than just improved financial compensation - it's a powerful statement about the value of women athletes and a catalyst for broader change. The fight for equitable treatment extends far beyond salaries, addressing issues like player safety, respect, and the broader gender pay gap in society.

The details

The new CBA features a salary cap increase to $7 million (up from $1.5 million in 2025) and maximum salaries approaching $1.4 million. Additionally, the agreement includes expanded rosters, charter flights, and a landmark 20% revenue sharing deal, giving players a greater stake in the league's financial success.

  • The new CBA was reached in March 2026.
  • The 2026 WNBA regular season will commence on May 8, with teams playing 44 games.
  • The season length will increase to 50 games in 2027-2028 and 52 games from 2029-2032.

The players

Napheesa Collier

Minnesota Lynx star and WNBPA vice-president who publicly criticized the WNBA's 'dangerous and dismissive culture' regarding player injuries and concerns.

Jemele Hill

Sports journalist who discussed the broader fight for equitable treatment of female athletes beyond just financial compensation.

Etan Thomas

Former NBA player who wrote about the WNBA CBA negotiations and their impact on his daughters, young volleyball players.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.