The WNBA just crowned the New York Liberty as champions, but that confetti might be swept away by something much more intense—a looming strike by the players. Yep, you read that right, folks! The WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) has officially thrown a curveball (or in this case, a basketball) by opting out of their current collective bargaining agreement (CBA), leaving us all wondering, “Will the 2026 season happen, or will the players be sitting courtside in protest?”
With A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart fresh off their 2024 semifinals duel, you’d think the players would be ready to kick back, pop some champagne, and revel in their hard-fought victories. But no. These athletes are now gearing up for their next big matchup—against the league itself.
When Championships and Contracts Collide
Just a day after Sabrina Ionescu and the Liberty pulled off their fairytale ending, celebrating their first-ever WNBA title (cue the Disney theme music), the players opted out of the 2020 CBA that was supposed to keep things chill until 2027. Translation: the WNBA’s next season may go smoothly, but if a new deal isn’t signed before the end of 2025, fans might be watching reruns instead of live games in 2026. Yikes!
But don’t panic just yet—there’s still time to avoid a full-on WNBA blackout. While the champagne corks are popping now, both sides have about a year to hammer out the details before the league gets hit with a potential work stoppage. And with record-setting viewership and attendance (thanks to rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink), the momentum is there. But there’s one tiny little problem—money.
Financial Fumbles: The $40 Million Dilemma
Despite the WNBA basking in its newfound popularity, the league is still a bit in the red—by about $40 million this season. Ouch. But fear not, Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has been quick to slap a band-aid on that financial boo-boo, pointing out that the WNBA’s new media rights deal in 2026 will bring some serious coin to the table. Hopefully, enough to keep everyone happy and avoid a strike-induced snooze fest.
Engelbert’s practically waving pom-poms about the upcoming negotiations, saying, “We look forward to working together with the players and the WNBPA on a new CBA that is fair for all and lays the foundation for growth and success for years to come.” Sounds optimistic—let’s hope it’s not the kind of optimism you need when your team’s down by 20 in the fourth quarter.
Players’ Playbook: More Than Just Paychecks
The WNBPA’s decision to opt out wasn’t just about cashing bigger checks. Oh no, this is about leveling the playing field with their NBA counterparts—literally. Right now, NBA players snag 50% of basketball-related revenue, while WNBA players only get a cut of incremental revenue over a certain threshold. In simpler terms, the NBA is living large while the WNBA players are left squabbling over scraps.
Nneka Ogwumike, WNBPA President and Seattle Storm star, hit the nail on the head: “It’s about claiming our rightful share of the business we’ve built, improving working conditions, and securing a future where the success we create benefits today’s players and the generations to come.” Translation: “We built this league. Time to pay up!”
But don’t think it’s all about the Benjamins. Players are also pushing for better retirement benefits, family planning support, and consistent professional standards. Basically, they want what everyone wants: job security and a solid future without having to rely on just Instagram sponsorship deals.
The Next Big Play: Expansion Teams, Media Deals, and Hope
The league’s on the verge of expansion too, with new teams expected in Golden State, Portland, and Toronto by 2026. Imagine that—a season with even more teams, but no players to fill the rosters if this CBA deal doesn’t go down smoothly.
Despite the whispers of strikes, missed games, and dramatic contract showdowns, there’s still hope that the WNBA will sort things out before 2026 turns into the season that never happened. Both sides seem eager to avoid a stoppage, but with negotiations like this, expect some nail-biting moments.
So, WNBA fans, buckle up! It’s going to be one wild ride.
