The WNBA is continually working to bridge the gap between the league’s proposal and players’ demands, and has recently presented a more comprehensive proposal to facilitate a resolution. The offer confirms a seven-figure salary to top players, with the mean also going significantly higher. Still, WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike called out the disconnect in the league’s contract negotiation.
In her criticism, she lashed out at the league’s ‘behavior’ and even called them not valuing players properly. While this was her analysis of the demands, another veteran, originally from the WNBL, mentioned how the new CBA will affect players from Australia.
WNBA’s CBA To Impact WNBL Players Too
Ever since its inception, the WNBA has had many overseas players playing in the league, with Australia’s Michele Timms earning the honor of being the first overseas signing. The point guard showed the path as many followed her, showcasing their abilities on the floor. The current lot also has many Australian stars, with Stephanie Talbot and Jade Melbourne being the prominent names in the league.
On current CBA negotiations, Mystics guard said, “For a lot of the Australian players that do play in the WNBA, it’s going to come down to enjoyment, but also what has the best price. The way they’re talking in the WNBA, that could be the option going forward. If I can do both, I can, but it might get to a point where the States might be my best option, and I’d have an offseason.”
Some details from the latest CBA proposal from the league, according to a source with knowledge of the situation:
— Kareem Copeland (@kareemcopeland) December 1, 2025
– The max salary would be a guaranteed $1 million base in 2026 w projected revenue sharing increasing total earnings for max players to over $1.2 million.
– The…
Interestingly, Talbot agrees with the young guard and said, “They might look to take their offseason off for their bodies and skill development (preparing for WNBA).” The 31-year-old also said that her younger self would have chosen WNBA for sure.
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
As of now, there is no concrete response from the WNBPA to the proposal. However, considering Ogwumike’s reaction, the league may need to come up with a better offer. The current offer is a mix of goodies for the players, though.
WNBA New CBA Breakdown
The WNBPA offered a 45-day extension to the CBA, with an eye on securing the desired contract. The current offer involves a guaranteed salary of $1 million for the top player of each franchise, with revenue sharing increasing the remuneration to $1.2 million. Franchises also get a hefty purse compared to the 2020 CBA deal. Both amounts will increase annually with the rise in revenue.
WNBA’s recent CBA proposal also included:
— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) December 2, 2025
– Removal of in-season team housing
– Lengthening season with training camp starting as early as mid-March
(per @AnnieCostabile)
But along with this, there are a few ‘distracting’ points which were a big surprise. The change in schedule and the dropping of player housing offer are significant let-downs, while the total revenue sharing percentage remains at 15%. But, as A’ja Wilson highlighted the WNBPA’s stance, players will be looking to get the best offer in all aspects.