The CBA Discussions entered the final phase as WNBPA President, Nneka Ogwumike, highlights two major hurdles keeping the CBA deal from becoming a reality. Sadly, the season would not get the green light until the deal is on the table, and now the WNBA Commissioner is coming forward with positive news to fans about the ‘halted’ discussions.
On day five of the marathon meetings, the commissioner mentioned that there won’t be a deadline from now on for the CBA discussions and now put forward an encouraging statement, which might hint at a possible deal in the coming days.
Cathy Engelbert Pushes For Historic CBA Deal
As per the update, the CBA deal requires clarification on the revenue-sharing model and percentages, along with the resolution on the provision of housing for the players.
Keeping this in mind, the league and PA are looking to find middle ground on both aspects, as Engelbert told the press, “We are going to keep going. We’re going to get this deal. And, you know, it’s going to be historic.”
"We are going to keep going. We're going to get this deal done. And, you know, it's going to be historic."
— ESPN (@espn) March 16, 2026
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said progress is being made toward a new CBA, following a sixth day of marathon talks with no deal. https://t.co/0D3ZbZk5Hi
The word historic hints at the league agreeing to the players’ demand, even though it had earlier projected losses with the numbers.
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Interestingly, it’s not only the WNBA Commissioner who is confident about the CBA Deal, the Connecticut Sun president Jen Rizzotti also said, “The fact that they just don’t want to stop, both sides, it’s not just the league side, it’s even the union. They want to get it done.”
While the league and the players’ association are looking to seal the deal, the WNBA Commissioner might be in danger of losing her job with situations around the league opposing her leadership.
Cathy Engelbert In Tough Spot During CBA Discussions
From the moment the 2025 regular season ended, the league’s top management faced heavy criticism for its passive stance and actions during the CBA discussions. Even analyst Elle Duncan clarifies the timeline for potential Engelbert replacement as WNBA commissioner.
Now, with the league looking to push for the CBA and the start of the 2026 season, there is a question mark over Engelbert’s continuation at the post. Many reports suggest that even though the commissioner seals the deal, the delay and ugly criticism would force her out of the office.