If there’s one constantly discussed topic in the WNBA, it’s the league fining players and teams over comments made outside of the court. This usually includes statements about the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) — the labor contract between the players’ union and the team owners.
In a recent press conference, Las Vegas Aces owner Mark Davis revealed how the WNBA fined him for speaking about the CBA.
Las Vegas Aces Owner Mark Davis Refuses To Talk About the CBA
In May 2024, Davis was fined for speaking about Caitlin Clark’s deal with Nike.
After the Aces bagged their third WNBA title in four years, Davis was asked about his take on the ongoing CBA negotiations. The American businessman refused to answer, choosing to stay mum after last year’s fine.
“The last time I spoke about that, I got fined. I think it’s better if I don’t say anything. I think they’ll work it out somehow. I hope so. I haven’t been consulted. … I think y’all know what side of the table I’ll probably be sitting on … We’ll get it right,” Davis told the media.
Davis Preciously Clapped Back at the WNBA-CBA for Accusing Them of Cap Circumvention
The last time Davis discussed the CBA was during accusations of cap circumvention on the Aces. The team was investigated over players earning $100,000 extra, which Davis claimed had no wrongdoing whatsoever.
“There was absolutely nothing done wrong,” Davis said. “And I think it’s sad that they used the word investigation instead of something a little softer to say, ‘Hey we might look into it’ or whatever. But they’re going to find there’s nothing wrong.”
The extra cash was made thanks to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority sponsorship, which was close to the WNBA’s $1.463 million salary cap. This prompted Davis to mention Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s mammoth deal with Nike, claiming that the brand ‘owned’ the league.
“Nike is an owner of the WNBA and they’re allowed to sponsor Caitlin Clark for $28 million on one player. And nobody’s complaining or investigating. And I think it’s great that Nike’s doing that. But let’s give credit to where credit’s due: Las Vegas Convention Authority is stepping up and recognizing these women.”
Davis wanted people to focus on the LVCA for promoting women athletes and the team, ultimately working as an excellent motivator for the players as well.
He tried to highlight, however, how the league’s investigation might try to run away from other potential sponsors. Many well-wishers might think the process is beyond the rules, ultimately causing the players to suffer.
Of course, the Aces have become one of the most successful franchises in the WNBA, especially with A’ja Wilson at the forefront.