The WNBA is staring at the possibility of its first-ever lockout as negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) continue to stall. With the current deal expiring on October 31, just days after the 2025 WNBA Finals, the league and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) remain far apart on key issues, and time is running out.
The potential shutdown comes at a pivotal moment for women’s basketball. The league has never been more popular, fueled by breakout stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, historic television ratings, and a record-setting $2.2 billion media rights deal set to begin in 2026.
Expansion is also on the horizon, with the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo joining the league next season. Yet, instead of preparing for growth, the WNBA now faces the prospect of labor strife that could stall momentum.
At the heart of the standoff is money. Reports indicate that WNBA players turned down a proposed framework that would have raised the minimum salary from $66,000 to $250,000, arguing that the offer didn’t go far enough given the league’s booming revenues.
Players have already made their stance public. During the 2025 All-Star Game, stars warmed up in black shirts reading, “Pay Us What You Owe Us,” highlighting their frustration with stalled negotiations.
If no deal is reached, the 2026 season could be shortened or delayed, a crushing blow considering what’s ahead. Along with the two new franchises, the league is set to welcome another stacked rookie class featuring Flau’jae Johnson, Azzi Fudd, Lauren Betts, and Olivia Miles. The arrival of such talent could push the league’s visibility to new heights, but a lockout would threaten to derail that surge.
Free agency would also be thrown into chaos. Stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Nneka Ogwumike are expected to cash in on the new media rights money, but a work stoppage could freeze those opportunities.
The uncertainty could frustrate players who feel this is the moment to finally close the gap between WNBA pay and the league’s rising commercial success.
While players appear willing to take a hard line, a lockout would not come without risk. Many athletes can turn to overseas leagues, the new Unrivaled 3×3 league, or Athletes Unlimited, but the WNBA remains the ultimate stage. Missing games could hurt careers, fan engagement, and the league’s long-term staying power.
Still, the WNBPA feels it has leverage. Women’s basketball has exploded in popularity, and the WNBA cannot afford to alienate fans just as it is entering its most lucrative era. For now, both sides seem entrenched, with little optimism that the October deadline will be met.
If the league and players cannot find common ground soon, the WNBA could enter 2026 under the shadow of its first-ever lockout, just when the sport was ready to soar.
