If a new CBA is not signed this fall, the WNBA may face lockdown next season
The stars in the WNBA, like Caitlin Clark, brought new energy to the league. WNBA is as big as ever, with only room for growth. By 2030, five teams are expected to be added.
Despite the growing popularity of the league, the WNBA is still working to reach a new union agreement. Front desk sports talked with WNBA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson. She shared that the WNBPA felt the urgency of the league’s inability to reach a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). They must reach a new union agreement by October 31; otherwise, the WNBA may lock in next season.
When will the WNBA reach a consensus on a new collective bargaining agreement?
Break In: WNBA and WNBPA are heading towards lockdown as collective bargaining agreements are unlikely to be ahead of October deadlines, @fos pic.twitter.com/0nrty9iqxb
– Legion Basketball (@legionhoops) August 25, 2025
The WNBA and WNBPA have signed a new collective bargaining agreement for just over 60 days. Sources around the league report that the possibility of reaching an agreement by the deadline is becoming increasingly unlikely. Front Office Sports (FOS) reports that this deadline will need to be extended to avoid any work stopping. They refer to the possible lockdown in the WNBA next season. Things fans, players and leagues don’t want to see.
Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson recently spoke with FOS. She said WNBA players “required new standards.” A WNBA spokesperson responded after Jackson was interviewed by FOS. The league claims they have been working with the WNBPA all summer and says their priority is to reach the new CBA.
Break In: WNBA & WNBPA are heading towards a lockdown because it is unlikely to pass a collective bargaining agreement until the October 31, 2025 deadline.
WNBA players allegedly rejected a deal that would triple their salary, from at least $66,000 to $250,000 &… pic.twitter.com/vgoauibylq
– Court Buzz (@courtsidebuzzx) August 26, 2025
This is not the first time the WNBA has encountered this problem. As early as 2019, the league and WNBPA reached a 60-day extension three days before the deadline. Prior to the free agent agency, in January 2020, the new CBA was agreed. However, this time the league faces new wrinkles. Two new teams will start the 2026 season. These include Toronto Rhythm and the Portland Fire.
In the new CBA, WNBA players are required to make multiple upgrades. Examples include “improving income sharing structure, improving welfare, roster expansion and scoped alliance workplace standards.” Before this year’s All-Star Game, players wore shirts and said, “Pay us what you owe us.” WNBA statement. When will the WNBA and WNBPA enter the new CBA in the 2026 season and beyond?
