News Summary
During the WNBA All-Star Game, players showcased their demand for fair salaries and revenue sharing by wearing T-shirts proclaiming ‘Pay Us What You Owe Us.’ Union president Nneka Ogwumike emphasized the disparity between WNBA and NBA player compensation, with players seeking equitable pay that reflects their contributions as negotiations continue. Despite recent growth in attendance and revenue, players express frustration with current proposals from the league. As the CBA expiration approaches, discussions remain crucial, with players considering a work stoppage if their compensation demands are not met.
Indianapolis – During the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, players made a powerful statement advocating for higher salaries and fair revenue sharing by donning T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Pay Us What You Owe Us“. The demonstration comes at a critical juncture as ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations continue between the players’ union and league officials.
Union president Nneka Ogwumike highlighted the stark contrast between the current salary structure and the league’s growth and investments. While WNBA players currently receive only 9.3% of the league’s revenue, their NBA counterparts enjoy a significantly higher share, averaging between 49% to 51% of basketball-related income. This disparity has fueled demand for more equitable compensation as players seek recognition for their contributions to the league’s success.
Separately from the All-Star festivities, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert was conducting a midseason press conference to discuss what she described as “constructive” discussions regarding the CBA negotiations. On the ground, over 40 players attended an in-person bargaining session with league officials in Indianapolis— a record turnout for the union. However, many players left feeling frustrated, believing the league’s recent counterproposals were insufficient and did not respond adequately to their demands.
Despite the WNBA’s ongoing challenges, such as not turning a profit since its inception in 1996, there is evidence of significant growth in various aspects of the league. Attendance has reportedly increased by 26%, and national TV viewership has surged by 23% year-over-year. Furthermore, merchandise sales have risen by an impressive 40%. A new media rights deal valued at $200 million annually is set to begin next year and is expected to further enhance revenue streams.
As negotiations progress, the players have proposed a series of changes focusing on the salary and revenue-sharing structure, in addition to improvements in retirement benefits. However, their feedback indicates dissatisfaction with the league’s response to these proposals. Engelbert stated that a pathway to profitability is crucial, but players have made it clear they want their pay to grow alongside the business’s financial health.
Players are advocating for a revenue-sharing model that would prevent caps on earnings, allowing them to benefit equitably from the league’s financial ascension. Previous negotiations had already shown players are willing to prioritize these talks over other commitments, marking the significance of the current discussions. Insights shared by players suggest they may consider a work stoppage as a last resort if a satisfactory resolution is not reached.
The current WNBA season features a record 44 games, and there are plans for expansion, with three new franchises expected to join the league by 2030. The impending expiration of the CBA on October 31, 2025 adds urgency to negotiations, especially after players opted out of the previous agreement. There are discontent among players regarding equitable salary structures and a perceived lack of transparency in the negotiating process.
Although Engelbert noted that a balance must be struck between increasing salaries and maintaining owners’ abilities to invest and sustain profitability, player sentiments reflect a strong desire for actionable steps that mirror the league’s recent financial successes. The players have been preparing for the possibility of a work stoppage as a contingency if the discussions do not yield favorable outcomes.
Future negotiations are expected to continue, predominantly through virtual meetings, as the season unfolds, underscoring the complex dynamics of the ongoing discussions surrounding player compensation and the future of the WNBA.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Google Search: WNBA CBA negotiations
- CBS Sports
- Wikipedia: WNBA
- USA Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s National Basketball Association
- Fox Sports
- Google News: WNBA CBA negotiations
- CNBC
- Google Scholar: WNBA players salaries
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
