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WNBA CBA Negotiations Focus on Housing, Revenue Sharing

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The WNBA's latest collective bargaining agreement proposal, released on Friday, introduces significant housing concessions for players, particularly those at the lower end of the salary scale. Under the new terms, players earning the league's minimum salary will receive a one-bedroom apartment for their first three seasons, while developmental players will be provided with studio units. This is a groundbreaking move, as it marks the first time the WNBA has explicitly included housing terms in any CBA draft.

However, the negotiations are far from complete, with revenue sharing remaining a contentious issue. The league's proposal suggests that players should receive just over 70% of the net revenue, calculated after operational expenses. Meanwhile, the WNBPA argues for a more substantial share, one that is tied to the league's growth. In addition to housing, the draft also proposes an increase in the 2026 salary cap to $5.65 million, a notable increase from the previous cap of approximately $1 million.

Fact: The WNBA's current revenue sharing model allocates only 50% of net revenue to the players.

As the deadline for a new CBA approaches, both sides are under pressure to reach an agreement. While the housing provisions are a positive step, the dispute over revenue sharing continues to be a significant hurdle. Players contend that the proposed financial model does not adequately compensate them for their contributions to the league's growth, while owners emphasize the need for financial stability. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the WNBA's upcoming 2026 season and its future trajectory.