New York, November 30, 2025
The WNBA and the players’ union have reached the end of a 30-day extension on their collective bargaining agreement negotiations without a new deal, raising the risk of a work stoppage amid ongoing disputes over salary structures, benefits, and league growth.
The expiration of this extension today marks a critical juncture for the Women’s National Basketball Association and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association. Despite intensive discussions, negotiations have stalled without a formal resolution, though no immediate lockout or strike is triggered at this point.
Negotiation Deadlock Details
At the core of the impasse are fundamental disagreements. Players demand a salary system more closely tied to the league’s revenue growth alongside enhanced benefits such as expanded rosters and charter travel options. They argue these measures reflect the rapid business growth and increasing momentum the league is experiencing.
In contrast, league officials have proposed increases to maximum player salaries — exceeding $1.1 million when including revenue sharing — but maintain a more rigid salary cap framework. The players find the growth mechanism on offer insufficient to meet their expectations for sustained compensation growth and improved working conditions.
What Happens Next?
While the deadline for the renewed agreement has passed, both sides remain operating under the terms of the existing collective bargaining agreement, which expired on October 31 but was extended by mutual consent. This means no automatic work stoppage occurs as a direct consequence of missing the November 30 deadline.
Any formal labor action, such as a lockout initiated by the league or a strike called by the players, would require a formal vote. Both sides may also opt to agree on further extensions to continue negotiations and avoid disruption to the 2026 WNBA season.
Broader Context
The outcome of these negotiations carries significant weight. The WNBA is currently experiencing robust growth in business and visibility, making the resolution of compensation and benefits issues essential for maintaining league stability and supporting its players.
For business leaders, policymakers, and global observers, the unfolding situation is a barometer of evolving labor relations in women’s professional sports and highlights the complexities of balancing growth with sustainable, fair player remuneration.
As negotiations continue beyond this critical deadline, the WNBA and the WNBPA face the challenge of aligning their interests to secure a viable future for the league and its athletes. The developments will remain closely watched by stakeholders invested in the welfare and progress of women’s professional basketball.