The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have reached a seven-year collective bargaining agreement. The new deal will run from 2026 through 2032.

Both sides negotiated the agreement for about 17 months. The talks began after players opted out of the previous deal in 2024. That agreement had originally been scheduled to last until 2027.

League and union leaders described the contract as a major step for women’s professional basketball. They said the deal reflects the league’s growing popularity and rising revenues.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert called the agreement a defining moment for the league.

Consequently, the agreement could reshape the league’s economic structure over the coming years.

💰 Deal Brings Major Salary Increases

The new contract significantly increases player pay. The agreement could generate more than $1 billion in salaries and benefits during its seven-year term. The salary cap will rise from about $1.5 million to roughly $7 million in 2026. This increase will allow teams to offer higher contracts to players.

Top players could earn about $1.4 million in 2026 under maximum contracts. The highest salaries may exceed $2.4 million by 2032. The agreement also introduces revenue sharing for players. Under the new system, player earnings will grow as league revenues increase.

Therefore, the contract links player pay more closely to the league’s financial performance.

✈️ Travel and Roster Improvements Included

The new deal also improves working conditions for players. The agreement provides league-wide charter flights for team travel. Players had requested this change for several years.

Teams will also expand their rosters. Each team will carry 12 players plus two developmental spots for younger athletes entering the league.

In addition, the league plans to increase the number of regular-season games. Officials expect the schedule to grow to as many as 52 games by 2029.

These changes aim to improve player welfare while strengthening the league’s competitive structure.

📈 Agreement Reflects Growth of Women’s Basketball

The agreement arrives during a period of rapid growth for the WNBA. Attendance, sponsorships, and media attention have increased in recent seasons.

League leaders believe the new CBA will support further expansion. The contract also aligns the interests of players and the league by linking pay to revenue growth.

Meanwhile, the upcoming 2026 season will mark the WNBA’s 30th year. The milestone highlights the continued development of women’s professional basketball.

As the new agreement takes effect, both the league and the players expect stronger financial stability and long-term growth.