Many WNBA analysts and players feared a possible lockdown following the ‘rocky’ CBA discussion meetings and the war of words within the WNBA and WNBPA. As the final week of discussions approaches, there are no positive signs for a solution. One of the reasons for this ‘standoff’ could be Napheesa Collier’s public criticism of Cathy Engelbert’s role.
However, recently, Napheesa Collier reportedly met with Cathy Engelbert, which gave a glimmer of hope for a solution. They met during the WNBPA’s meeting with league authorities, which was described as very professional by an insider. Yet, after many weeks of discussion, one unresolved issue remains that could lead to a lockout in the upcoming season.
Cathy Engelbert Staying Firm On Revenue Sharing Model
While the difference between the WNBA Commissioner and Lynx star is one of the highlights of the relationship between players and Engelbert, the hot topic at hand is agreeing on the revenue-sharing model. During the meeting on October 9, when the forward and WNBA’s top executive met face to face, it was all professional discussion with no ‘ill feelings’ towards each other, according to a league insider.
While both parties agree on increasing salaries, a stumbling block remains ‘perception of revenue share.’ In the previous meeting, the WNBA mentioned its revenue-sharing model as its statement reads,
“The comprehensive proposal we provided to the Players Association includes both significant guaranteed salary cap increases and substantial uncapped revenue sharing that enables player salaries to grow as the league’s business grows.”
The WNBA’s proposal has two main issues, as per the WNBPA. The first and most obvious one is the league’s idea to pay its expenses first and then share the incremental revenue, provided specific targets are reached. The players’ association is not ready for such a model. The other issue is that the WNBPA insists the league is still offering a capped salary model, similar to the current structure, which only grows annually by a fixed single-digit percentage.
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Here is what the CBA states regarding “revenue sharing.” Nneka Ogwumike said players never received any of that to her knowledge and that players know nothing about how much money the league makes. Know more here: https://t.co/JcNDBN8pSi pic.twitter.com/QmgYePujge
— Roberta (@robertawbb) October 6, 2025
While the WNBPA wants the WNBA to adopt the revenue model the NBA uses, which relies on BRI (Basketball Related Income), this model also includes ticket sales and merchandise sales. Interestingly, they’re not asking for a 50-50 or even a 40-60 split, either.
While the entire system is working towards finding a solution to the issue, players are prepared for a lockout if the league proposes more time or disagrees with their terms.
Why WNBA Players Might Not Fear Lockout Following Cathy Engelbert’s Stand
The WNBA boasts the richest pool of talent in women’s basketball, featuring multiple superstars and Olympians, which makes it a competitive and entertaining league. But in recent years, players have had numerous options to play. With the growth of the WNBA, several parallel leagues, including Unrivaled, Athletes Unlimited, and European basketball, are also gaining popularity.
LeBron James’ partner, Maverick Carter, plans to rival the WNBA with investment from Saudi Arabia and Singapore, which would empower the players and weaken the WNBA’s stance. If the association decides to take strict action and move in a different direction, it would be a significant blow to the WNBA’s growth, especially with two new franchises set to enter the league in 2026.
It will be interesting to watch how Engelbert pursues the league’s stars to stay, finding the sweet spot between the players’ demands and the league’s perception, all within the next 100 hours or so.