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🔔 Today’s issue is a little different. 🔔
We’re focusing entirely on the new WNBA CBA and breaking it down into the three biggest things you need to know. This deal is a real shift for the league and how the players are valued, and the below will give a little insight into why.
What to Know About The New WNBA CBA
1. Player Compensation Is Making a Big Leap 💰
The new deal brings major pay increases across the board, and those numbers keep climbing over the life of the agreement. The salary cap jumps to $7M this year and grows to over $11M by 2032. Supermax salaries rise from $1.4M to $2.4M, and minimum salaries now start at $270K and grow to $340K over the same period. On top of that, players will receive roughly 20% of all revenue that comes into the league.
For years, players often had to go overseas to make real money. Now, playing in the WNBA is much closer to being a full-time, sustainable career on its own. And because these increases apply across the board, including players on rookie deals, it lifts the entire league.
2. Player Benefits Are Finally Catching Up 🏠
In the past, there weren’t minimum team standards in writing. That changes with this deal. Teams are now required to meet certain standards for facilities, staffing, and overall player care, including trainers, nutrition support, and medical resources.
Players will continue to have housing covered by the league through 2028, with continued support for those making under $500K after that. The deal also increases team contributions to players’ retirement accounts.
All of this makes day-to-day life a lot easier for players. It means less time worrying about housing or access to resources, and more time focused on basketball. It also brings the WNBA closer to the standards you see in other pro leagues.
3. Roster Rules Are Getting Smarter 🧠
Teams will now be required to carry 12 players, instead of the previous range that could dip to 11. There are also two new developmental roster spots that don’t count against the salary cap. More roster spots means more jobs, and it also helps with rest and recovery across a compact season.
There are also new salary cap exceptions for pregnancy, childbirth, and season-ending injuries. That added flexibility gives teams a way to handle the real-life situations that pop up without being put at a competitive disadvantage.
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🗳️ Poll Results from Yesterday: We asked what you're most excited to follow as WNBA teams start building their rosters, and 60% of you said the free agency period. Hard to argue with that. There’s going to be a lot to watch there.
