WNBA strikes new deal with players' union after growth fueled by Caitlin Clark

The WNBA has reached a deal in principle with its players' union on a new collective bargaining agreement, as the league continues to see a surge in popularity following the emergence of star player Caitlin Clark.

The two sides agreed to key terms of a new deal that will allow the league to proceed with its next season, which begins on May 8. While details are still being finalized by lawyers on both sides, a term sheet is expected to be completed in the next few days before being sent to the players' union for ratification, then the league’s Board of Governors for approval.

"I just want to say we have aligned on key elements of a new collective bargaining agreement together. We still need to finalize a formal term sheet, but the progress made in these discussions marks a transformative step forward for players and the league," WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement. "It underscores a shared commitment to the continued growth of the game. So, we’ll share additional details as they become available."

The WNBA has experienced substantial growth since Clark entered the league in 2024 after a high-profile college career. Her arrival helped boost ratings and overall interest in the sport. Now, under the proposed agreement, player salaries are expected to increase substantially, with a fourfold increase compared to last season anticipated, according to Fox News.  

"For the first time, player salaries are tied to a truly meaningful share of league revenue, driving exponential growth in the salary cap, increasing average compensation beyond half a million dollars and raising the standard across facilities, staffing and support," said union president Nneka Ogwumike. 

Union vice president Breanna Stewart called the deal “transformational,” saying it will create a system in which “everybody is getting exactly what they deserve and more from on the court and off the court aspects."