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WNBA, Union Sign 7-Year Tentative CBA Linking Pay to League Revenue as Player Vote Nears

Ratification would clear the way for sweeping pay, roster, travel, schedule changes starting in 2026.

Overview

  • The signed term sheet covers 2026 through 2032 with a six-year opt‑out and now goes to the players for a vote before Board of Governors approval.
  • The agreement establishes a comprehensive revenue‑sharing model for the first time in women’s pro sports, with reporting indicating an average player share near 20%.
  • Team salary caps would start at $7.0 million in 2026, with projections of more than $1 billion in total player salaries and benefits over the deal.
  • Top salaries would climb to $1.4 million in 2026 with average pay of about $583,000 and minimums of $270,000–$300,000, including a veteran‑minimum cap relief provision.
  • Player pathways and conditions would expand through the EPIC rookie escalator, charter flights, phased housing support, 12‑player active rosters plus two developmental spots, schedule growth to 50–52 games, and a 2027 change limiting Core Player designations.