News Summary
During the recent WNBA All-Star Game, players called for equitable compensation by wearing T-shirts that stated ‘Pay Us What You Owe Us.’ This demonstration reflects ongoing negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement amidst player frustrations over the current salary structure, which does not align with the league’s growth. A group of players gathered for in-person talks, highlighting their strong demand for fair salary and transparency in negotiations, as they seek to enhance their compensation and benefits in light of successful league improvements.
Indianapolis, IN
During the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, players made a clear demand for higher salaries and equitable revenue sharing by wearing T-shirts that read “Pay Us What You Owe Us.” This demonstration is part of ongoing negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) as the league continues to navigate financial challenges and player frustrations over compensation.
WNBA union president Nneka Ogwumike expressed that the current salary structure does not accurately reflect the league’s growth or the investments being made. While league commissioner Cathy Engelbert was participating in a midseason press conference emphasizing ongoing “constructive” talks concerning CBA negotiations, more than 40 players gathered for a pivotal in-person bargaining session with league officials, demonstrating a heightened level of engagement within the union.
The recent player turnout in Indianapolis reflected a strong desire for change, as many felt the league’s counterproposal to their demands was insufficient. Currently, WNBA players receive only 9.3% of league revenue, which starkly contrasts with NBA players, who earn between 49% and 51% of basketball-related income. This discrepancy highlights an ongoing concern regarding the financial compensation of WNBA athletes.
Despite being in operation since 1996, the WNBA has yet to turn a profit; however, there are signs of improvement. Viewership and attendance have surged, with a 26% increase in attendance and a 23% rise in national TV viewership year-over-year. Merchandise sales have also jumped by 40%. Furthermore, the league’s upcoming media rights deal, valued at $200 million annually, is expected to contribute significantly to future revenue growth.
The union has submitted several proposals aimed at revising salary and revenue-sharing structures, along with enhancing retirement benefits. Still, the union experienced tension regarding the league’s responses, which many players found unsatisfactory. Engelbert conveyed that while achieving profitability is a vital objective, it should not come at the expense of player earnings, calling for a balanced approach moving forward.
Players are advocating for a revenue-sharing model that eliminates caps on their earnings, allowing them to participate in the league’s financial success. Player frustrations were exacerbated during the recent bargaining session, with some labeling it a “wasted opportunity.” Key issues raised included the need for fair salary structures and transparency in negotiation processes.
Additionally, the league has introduced a charter flight program to enhance travel logistics for players, a move made outside of the CBA framework, which illustrates the players’ ongoing demands for better treatment and compensation. Engelbert reiterated that while increasing player salaries and benefits is essential, it must be balanced with the owners’ capacity to invest and operate profitably.
The WNBA season currently features a record 44 games, and plans for expansion are underway, with three new franchises expected to join the league by 2030. As the CBA expiration date approaches on October 31, 2025, following the players’ decision to opt-out of the previous agreement, some players have voiced readiness to consider a work stoppage if satisfactory progress is not made in negotiations.
As discussions continue amid the pressures of the season, players remain vigilant, prepared for potential actions as negotiations progress primarily through virtual meetings. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the future of the league and its players, who continue to advocate for a fairer share of the profits generated by their talent and efforts.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Google Search: WNBA CBA negotiations
- CBS Sports
- Wikipedia: WNBA
- USA Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s National Basketball Association
- Fox Sports
- Google News: WNBA CBA negotiations
- CNBC
- Google Scholar: WNBA players salaries
