The time is here!! WNBA AND WNBPA REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT; Increases to Player Cash Compensation and Benefits

It’s official – a shift towards bridging the  income gap for the 12 WNBA teams and 144 players is underway.

The deal terms include a 53 percent increase in total cash compensation, consisting of base salary, performance bonuses, prize pools for newly created in-season competitions, and league and team marketing deals.  Under the new CBA, the league’s top players will be able to earn cash compensation in excess of $500,000, representing a more than tripling of the maximum compensation under the prior deal. 

For the first time in WNBA history, the average salary for players will exceed six figures, averaging nearly $130,000, resulting in an increase for all players from rookies to veterans.

Other top players will have an opportunity to earn between $200,000 and $300,000. 

“We approached these negotiations with a player-first agenda, and I am pleased that this agreement guarantees substantial increases in compensation and progressive benefits for the women of the WNBA,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. 

“The Dream coaches are excited to finally move forward and begin to build a winning team, and our staff to engage sponsors and sell tickets. While the process was elongated, we know that the spirit of the negotiations was collaborative and that a deal was reached that is favorable to both sides. Ultimately, what this agreement says is that the WNBA is here to stay, and we are thrilled about that! We look forward to seeing our fans this May in College Park.” Atlanta Dream, President and General Manager Chris Sienko.

Additional benefits include enhanced player experience with respect to travel and child care benefits, and expanded offseason career development opportunities. 

This is a true testament of how women coming together and exercising their voice, strength, and progressive prospective displays the true value of women empowerment!

READ FULL PRESS RELEASE HERE