As the WNBA Finals reach their climax, tension off the court is just as intense. The league’s ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) discussions have revealed a widening gap between player expectations and management’s latest offer — and the numbers underscore a pay disparity that remains staggering when compared to the NBA.
The new proposal: A raise that still falls short
According to Front Office Sports, the WNBA’s latest proposal includes a first-year supermax salary “closer to $850,000,” with a veteran minimum of around $300,000. While this marks a significant increase from the current supermax of $249,244 and veteran minimum of $78,831, it still represents only a fraction of what NBA stars earn.
To put it in perspective, NBA superstars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jayson Tatum are set to earn more than $60 million annually, while WNBA icons like Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson might not even make 2% of that figure under the proposed structure.
Player frustration over revenue sharing model
Beyond salary numbers, the real friction lies in the structure of the deal. Reports indicate that the new proposal maintains the existing revenue-trigger system — meaning players only see major gains if specific financial benchmarks are met.
This system, players argue, slows down fair compensation and ties their financial growth to opaque metrics. The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has been pushing for a more transparent, revenue-sharing model similar to that of the NBA, where income automatically adjusts in line with league profits.
Voices of discontent within the league
Several prominent figures have voiced their dissatisfaction. Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier, who also serves as a WNBPA vice president, has been outspoken about the lack of player involvement in critical decisions, including pay, officiating, and overall working conditions.
Adding to the chorus, WNBA legend Candace Parker publicly criticized the disconnect between players and league leadership, stating that many players maintain stronger relationships with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver than with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Engelbert, for her part, acknowledged being “disheartened” by the comments but reiterated her commitment to rebuilding trust and ensuring progress through dialogue.
A League at a crossroads
With the current CBA set to expire on October 31, the clock is ticking. The possibility of a lockout looms if no agreement is reached or if negotiations break down entirely. While the WNBA’s proposed raise signals a step forward, players believe it’s not enough to reflect the league’s growing popularity and global visibility.