WNBA's Latest CBA Proposal Offers Fast-Track to Max Contracts for Rising Stars

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The WNBA's latest collective bargaining agreement proposal includes a provision that would allow players on rookie-scale contracts to become eligible for a maximum contract after just four years if they are selected for the All-WNBA first or second team during that time. This means rising stars like the Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark and the Dallas Wings' Paige Bueckers could be in line for massive pay increases much sooner than expected.

Why it matters

This new CBA proposal is a game-changer for the WNBA's young superstars, as it will allow them to earn salaries commensurate with their on-court production and star power much earlier in their careers. This could help the league retain top talent and continue growing the popularity of the women's game.

The details

Under the proposed CBA, the WNBA's supermax salary would grow from around $249,000 in 2025 to $1.3 million in the first year of the new deal. That means Caitlin Clark, who was a first-team All-WNBA selection as a rookie in 2024, would be eligible for a max contract in 2027 - over 16 times her rookie salary. Paige Bueckers, a second-team All-WNBA pick in 2025, would be able to sign a max deal in 2028.

• Caitlin Clark was named first-team All-WNBA and won Rookie of the Year in 2024.
• Paige Bueckers was selected second-team All-WNBA in 2025.
• The new WNBA CBA proposal includes a provision to fast-track max contracts for players on rookie deals who make the All-WNBA first or second team.
• Under the proposed CBA, the WNBA supermax salary would grow from $249,000 in 2025 to $1.3 million in the first year of the new deal.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The WNBA and the players' union will continue to negotiate the details of the new CBA, which is expected to be ratified before the start of the 2026 season.