A new collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and Women’s National Basketball Players Association is "unlikely" to happen by the October 31 deadline, sources told Front Office Sports.
The sources add that the two sides will likely need to extend the deadline.
“The players are working diligently to achieve a transformational CBA that builds on the growth, momentum, and positive news surrounding women’s sports and the W,” WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson told FOS. “As we approach the 60-day mark, the league’s lack of urgency leaves players wondering if it is focused on making this work or just running out the clock."
The players are looking to increase their revenue share, receive improved benefits, expand rosters, and implement league-wide workplace standards.
The WNBA responded to FOS with their own statement.
“We have been clear with the WNBPA but so there is no doubt—our number one priority is to get a new collective bargaining agreement completed that addresses the players’ priorities while also supporting the long-term growth and success of the league and teams,” a WNBA spokesperson told FOS.
Should the two sides fail to come to an agreement by October 31, they could agree to a brief extension of the previous CBA as they continue their negotiations.
The WNBA has never lost games due to a work stoppage.