All things considered, the concerns of having a WNBA season were real. In this case, both the league and WNBPA were far apart. After months of negotiations, a new CBA is reportedly all but done with some major aspects addressed.
Firstly, the salary cap will increase from $1.5 million last year to $7 million in the beginning year. This is a massive 333.67 percent boost. Next, a huge elevation in salary will happen as the minimum of $66,079 is growing to in excess of $300,000. Also, the player revenue takes a leap from 9.3 percent under the previous CBA to almost 20 percent in this CBA.
Looking at the super-max deals, the amount will be up to $1.4 million as the average salary is in the neighborhood of $600,000 and the minimum over $300,000. In their fourth year, first- and second-team All-WNBA players on rookie contracts may sign a maximum deal. MVP-winning rookies are eligible for a super max contract.
— WNBA (@WNBA) March 18, 2026
Players such as Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and guard Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings qualify for max contracts. As for the super-max deal, four-time WNBA A’ja Wilson is expected to re-sign with the Las Vegas Aces on such a deal.
Important Dates for the WNBA
On April 7-8, teams can make qualifying offers and “core” player designations while starting negotiations with free agents, but no deals can be inked from April 9 – 11.
Additionally, players can officially sign contracts and offer sheets between April 12 – 18. During this time, free agency will begin on April 12 while the WNBA Draft will happen on April 13.
What’s more, season No. 30 of the WNBA will tip-off on May 8 with three matchups. On May 9, there will be three games and five more on May 10.
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