Tensions are building between the WNBA and the Womenâs National Basketball Players Association as negotiations over a new CBA intensify, with players pushing for more even revenue sharing and salary structures that reflect the leagueâs recent growth.
One of the players behind the WNBA’s significant rise in viewership has been Caitlin Clark, and the Fever star point guard’s role in negotiations has been revealed.
WNBA Insider Reveals Caitlin Clarkâs Impact on New CBA Negotiations
With the league facing a potential lockout, several prominent voices have come out strongly during the current CBA talks. Faces of the league like Breanna Stewart and Kelsey Plum, who are both on the WNBPA executive committee, have publicly criticized how negotiations are being handled
The two have, in particular, argued that players havenât been meaningfully involved in the process. The good news is that revenue sharing was the big point of contention heading into negotiations, and progress has been made on that front. But the clock is still ticking with the preseason less than two months away.
To this point, Clark has largely remained quiet during these negotiations, and WNBA Insider Anna Costible was asked how much of an obligation the superstar point guard should feel to speak out. The Front Office Sports reporter subsequently poured cold water on the notion that Clark has to voice her opinion.
“Caitlin is the face of the league. She has power, when she speaks people listen, thatâs very valid, but sheâs also a very calculated person when she does speak. And I think the people leading these negotiations are not necessarily asking that of her. And so, if youâre Caitlin, is it your job to supersede player leadership? I donât think thatâs a tactic Caitlin would ever take on.”
The WNBA is set to enter its 30th season on May 8, 2026. Two expansion franchises are joining the now 15-team league: the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire. The WNBA has never lost regular-season games to a lockout, making this a pivotal moment if talks were to collapse.
A work stoppage now would risk alienating new fans and corporate partners whoâve just invested in the leagueâs surge. Still, the players currently hold most of the leverage and could maintain public support even if a lockout ensues.
Overall, both the WNBA and WNBPA have agreed to a self-imposed March 10 deadline to reach a handshake deal. If Clark plans on speaking up about the new CBA, it will likely happen soon.
