The WNBA and its Players’ Union are currently engaged in their sixth consecutive day of collective bargaining talks. With the impending season on the horizon, both parties are working diligently to finalize terms that will avoid any potential delays. Over 60 hours of discussions have taken place since in-person negotiations began on Tuesday. This critical session commenced around noon EDT on Sunday.
Key Players in the Negotiation
In attendance on the union’s side are prominent figures such as Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Alysha Clark. Brianna Turner joined the discussions later in the day.
Major Discussion Points
- Revenue Sharing: A significant point of contention, with the union initially requesting 40% of gross revenue, later negotiating down to 26%.
- Housing Provisions: The topic of housing remains critical. The league aims to amend the current practices where teams cover player housing costs.
Ogwumike emphasized the importance of finalizing agreements on both revenue sharing and housing, highlighting their necessity for the union. Currently, league proposals focus on net revenue, while the union prefers discussions based on gross revenue.
Current Housing Arrangements
Since the league’s inception, teams have been responsible for player housing. However, the new collective bargaining agreement may introduce changes. The union seeks to ensure that teams continue covering housing for players during the early years of the new agreement.
Additionally, it was revealed that in the latter two years of the contract, franchises might not be required to house players earning close to the maximum salary. In contrast, the league proposes to continue covering all players’ housing for the upcoming season while shifting to only rookies and minimum salaried players thereafter.
Timeline for Conclusion
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has set a target for the negotiations to conclude by Monday. Timely completion is crucial to prevent disruptions to the upcoming season, which is set to start on May 8. Engelbert noted potential flexibility regarding the timeline but stressed the urgency given the scheduled preseason games beginning on April 25.
With an expansion draft for Portland and Toronto on the horizon, as well as upcoming free agency for a substantial portion of the league, prompt resolution of bargaining discussions is imperative.
