The WNBA has achieved a historic milestone, generating enough revenue in 2025 to trigger revenue sharing with its players for the first time. The league notified player leadership earlier this month that they hit the benchmark, resulting in $8 million being distributed among players. This marks a significant achievement for the players' union in their ongoing negotiations.

Under the 2020 CBA, players receive 50% of shared revenue above a predetermined threshold minus 30% for expenses. The union estimates players' total share at $16 million, with half going directly to players active in 2025 and the other half allocated to league marketing agreements. The union declined to specify the exact revenue figures needed to trigger the payments, citing confidentiality.

This development comes amid contentious CBA negotiations, with players authorized to strike if necessary. The latest proposals show a wide gap between the sides, with players seeking 27.5% of gross revenue and the league offering 70% of net revenue over the agreement's lifetime. With the 2026 season scheduled to start May 8, both sides must reach an agreement before addressing expansion drafts, free agency, and the rookie draft.