Home / Sports / WNBA Players Score Big: New CBA Means Major Paydays
WNBA Players Score Big: New CBA Means Major Paydays
21 Mar
Summary
- New seven-year CBA through 2032 includes significant salary cap increases.
- Top players can earn over $1 million annually for the first time.
- Charter travel and enhanced benefits are codified in the new agreement.
The WNBA and its players' union have reached a pivotal milestone, signing a term sheet for a new seven-year collective bargaining agreement that extends through the 2032 season. This landmark deal, awaiting final ratification, is poised to transform professional women's basketball.
Under the new agreement, the salary cap is projected to reach $7 million by 2026, with average player salaries exceeding $585,000. Notably, top players could earn over $1 million annually for the first time in league history, with a potential supermax salary nearing $1.4 million.
Significant improvements are also noted in player benefits. The CBA includes codified charter travel, estimated to cost over $300 million throughout its duration. Additionally, life insurance benefits will increase to over $700,000 per player, and team contributions to 401K retirement accounts will rise.
The deal also addresses housing, with teams covering costs for players earning $500,000 or less through 2030. Game schedules will expand, with the league moving to 50 games in 2027-2028 and up to 52 games from 2029-2032.
Other key provisions include increased bonuses for awards and postseason success, with championship team members set to receive $60,000. The WNBA will also offer a one-time payment of $100,000 to retired players with 12 or more years of service.
