According to sources cited by ESPN, the WNBA has taken a significant step in its ongoing collective bargaining negotiations. On Friday, the league formally presented a new proposal to the players’ association, marking a pivotal development after a prolonged period of over six weeks without a formal response to the WNBPA‘s last counteroffer.
This latest move comes on the heels of a face-to-face meeting held last week, which brought together league officials and key union representatives. Among those present were WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike of the Seattle Storm and first VP Kelsey Plum of the LA Sparks, signaling a high-level engagement from both sides.
Housing Provisions Take Center Stage
While the full details of the proposal remain confidential, sources indicate that it introduces revised stipulations regarding player accommodations. A notable feature is the provision of one-bedroom apartments for both rookie players and those earning the minimum salary. Furthermore, the proposal outlines that developmental players would be guaranteed studio apartments, a benefit specifically applicable for the initial three years of the forthcoming collective bargaining agreement.
However, a critical element appears to remain unaddressed in this latest submission. Reports suggest that the league’s new proposal does not incorporate a framework for revenue sharing, a topic that has been a central point of contention and a key demand from the players’ union throughout the negotiation process.