WNBA fans were excited for a day or two with the league declaring its schedule and Breana Stewart hinting at positive signs towards reaching an agreement. Though there are no further updates on the topic, players like A’ja Wilson and Azura Stevens call out the WNBA over the missing schedule drop. Former player Candace Parker also shared her view in an exclusive interview.
After spending 16 seasons in the league, the player is well aware of its ins and outs. She was not only the top player in the league but also an influential one who was part of the 2020 CBA deal. Now, as a retired player, she gave her views on the topic.
Candace Parker Talks About CBA Negotiations
The former player remained connected to the league as she became a commentator and was part of Tennessee’s bid for an expansion team. Though their bid fell short, the player is not giving up and is looking to bring a WNBA team to the city. On the CBA deal, she wants players to show similar resilience.
“I think it’s super important for the WNBA to kind of set the bar. A lot of things the WNBA has been first. It’s the longest-standing sports league in the US, and it’s that way for a reason because we’ve always stood on principles, we’ve always stood on business,” Parker told TalkSport in an exclusive interview.
EXCLUSIVE: Candace Parker reveals why players should ‘stand on business’ with CBA negotiations https://t.co/NzziAANYu8
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) January 26, 2026
She sees the CBA deal could be a major turnaround for women’s sport in general. Soccer also broke its record with the recent deal for the Washington forward, Trinity Rodman. Sophie Cunningham reacted to the Rodman deal, showing that the WNBA players are also keeping an eye on other leagues’ progress.
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But the discussions have been ongoing for nearly a year, and Parker sees the power shift since the league’s recent surge in popularity.
Candace Parker Sees Power With Players
With multiple league options, the WNBA is looking to strike a deal as early as possible. Natasha Cloud even hinted at players’ backup plan if the CBA talks extend beyond the 2026 season dates. CP also feels the same and sees power lying with the WNBPA in the negotiation deal.
Adding to her comment about CBA, the three-time champion said, “The power is always within the players, but obviously we want there to be a season. I think it’s super important for both sides to work together.”
Nneka Ogwumike and Breanna Stewart also spoke about players’ intentions despite the strike voting. Fans will hope to see the end of the topic as early as possible so the league can get underway, especially with the WNBA announcing its season schedule.