The WNBA CBA negotiation is entering the third week of the second extension. With no encouraging signs for the conclusion, everyone is looking at other options to make the breakthrough. WNBPA’s vice president, Breanna Stewart, even called on Adam Silver and Mark Tatum amid WNBA CBA negotiations.
Though the NBA Commissioner explicitly trusted Cathy Engelbert to complete the negotiations in time. But now he has to make an offer and see that there are no further delays.
Adam Silver Makes Himself Available For WNBA CBA Negotiations
The new CBA proposal had many positives on the commercial front, but the NBPA still had some issues with the profit-sharing percentage and other extra terms. Natasha Cloud openly blasted the WNBA’s plan to eliminate team housing in the new CBA, calling it ‘senseless’. While this was just one example of the players’ outrage towards the negotiations, the NBA Commissioner has now added another dimension to it, proposing help for the discussions.
“We’re available to do whatever is necessary to help get a deal done. We acknowledge that our players deserve to be paid significantly more than they have so far based on the increased success of the league and it’s just a question now of finding a meeting of the minds in terms of what is a fair deal,” the NBA Commissioner said during the NBA Cup final game.
Adam Silver on the WNBA CBA negotiations:
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) December 17, 2025
"We're available to do whatever is necessary to help get a deal done. We acknowledge that our players deserve to be paid significantly more than they have so far based on the increased success of the league and it's just a question now… pic.twitter.com/6GnWRz9JYJ
He added that the NBA is ready to help and was pleased with the extension, which, in his view, marked a constructive path towards the goal.
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The 63-year-old executive was keeping a close eye on the discussions and hinted that the process would be completed before October. Now, midway through December, there is no sign of the end to the discussions, so he is looking to step into the picture. The NBA Commissioner is well-versed in the ins and outs of the WNBA and has been closely monitoring the changes.
Adam Silver Lauds Caitlin Clark and Indiana Fever for WNBA’s Popularity Surge
The key aspect of the players’ rigid demands in the CBA discussion is the surge of popularity since 2024, and the player at the heart of this gain is Caitlin Clark. While Silver also understands the gravity of CC, he recently praised the playmaker and her franchise for the work they have done in the league’s success.
Recently, speaking with FDSNI, Adm. Silver pinpointed the rise and praised Fever Guard. He said, “To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it’s remarkable.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver (on FDSNI): "To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it's remarkable."
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) December 4, 2025
Interestingly, the most profitable player in the league earns the least salary at the moment, and after the inclusion of Silver in the discussion, the picture might be different.