The WNBA is facing a potential work stoppage as the current collective bargaining agreement with the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) is set to expire on October 31, 2025. The players union, led by director Terri Jackson, is prepared to negotiate until a fair deal that reflects the players' value is reached, focusing on higher salaries, better working conditions, and expanded health benefits. The WNBPA opted out of the current deal last year, emphasizing the need for significant progress and long-term growth. High-profile players like Angel Reese have expressed their willingness to sit out if their demands are not met, highlighting the financial challenges faced by players despite the league's growing popularity. Last season, the WNBA experienced its highest viewership and attendance in over two decades, indicating strong public interest that could influence negotiations.

The WNBA's current collective bargaining agreement with the players union is expiring on October 31, 2025, leading to potential negotiations or a work stoppage.

The Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) is advocating for a new deal that includes higher salaries, improved working conditions, and expanded health benefits for players.

Terri Jackson, the director of the WNBPA, has stated that the players are prepared to negotiate for as long as necessary to achieve a fair agreement, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities in women's sports.

Angel Reese, a notable player, has voiced the possibility of players sitting out if their demands are not met, underscoring the financial difficulties faced by players despite the WNBA's increased popularity.

The WNBA recently had its most-watched regular season in 24 years and saw a significant increase in game attendance, with over 2.3 million attendees in 2024, which may impact the negotiations positively.

The players union opted out of the current deal last year, highlighting the need for a business model that truly reflects the players' value and supports long-term growth.

The league's rising popularity and increased public interest, as demonstrated by record viewership and attendance, provide a critical backdrop for the upcoming negotiations.