While the NCAA tournament goes on, global basketball matters take place. The WNBA and its players’ association agreed to a lucrative deal that will prevent a work stoppage.
In return, the league that the NCAA serves as a direct feeder system to achieve labor peace. South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, as a former WNBA player, took the microphone and delivered her opinion on the deal.
South Carolina Coach Dawn Staley Endorses New WNBA Labor Deal
Before her championship-filled coaching career, Staley was a standout in the WNBA. Playing for the Charlotte Sting and the Houston Comets, the former point guard made six All-Star teams.
As a college head coach, she maintains a vested interest in WNBA matters. During a press conference, the South Carolina coach discussed the new deal.
“What’s happening is incredibly historic. People have fought. When you enter into the league, you’re gonna make probably 100 times more than someone 30 years ago, 10 years ago, 5 years ago.”
The league and its players reached a deal comprising several parts that change the WNBA’s pay structure. First, the league increased its salary cap from $1.5 million per team to $7 million. Next, the minimum salary rises above $300,000, while the average pay is expected to fall within the $600,000 range.
For comparison, during Staley’s tenure from 1999 to 2006, the average pay in 2000 was $55,000. The coach understands what the long-term effects of negotiated raises mean.
“A little more generational wealth if you do the right things with it.”
Dawn Staley spoke about the WNBA’s new CBA deal while Raven Johnson sat next to her:
“What’s happening is incredibly historic. People have fought. When you enter into the league, you’re gonna make probably 100 times more than someone 30 years ago, 10 years ago, 5 years ago.” pic.twitter.com/tTrHAY5Dlq
— Matt Dowell (@MattDowellTV) March 20, 2026
Whereas male athletes, for decades, spoke of generational wealth and the ability to ensure family financial security, the coach believes the WNBA opened the door to it. Given the league’s structure, as a former player, Staley could relate to the executive board.
The entire board, from its president, Seattle Storm power forward Nneka Ogwumike, to Indiana forward Brianna Turner, who serves as treasurer, is composed of current players. Additionally, two players from each franchise serve as representatives.
Unlike the NBA, WNBA players would supplement their income in years past by playing internationally. Staley quickly explained why that will become a function of the past.
“The WNBA will make you make a choice because you have to be on time in training camp. It’s worth it now. It’s worth it to actually have your body recover and just play in the WNBA season.”
In the eyes of many, the players’ union held strong, taking on league commissioner Cathy Engelbert in private meetings and in the media. Building on the popularity of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and strong television ratings, the league plans to expand to 18 teams by 2030. This summer will see the debut of two new teams, the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, who will join the Golden State Valkyries as the newest franchises.
The South Carolina coach played in a league with just 12 teams. Of those beginning franchises, eight still exist.
Now that the league is growing and players are reaping financial rewards, what is the next step in its evolution? Staley has sent multiple players to the WNBA and uses that fact as a recruiting tool.
