A New Era for Women’s Basketball

After more than 100 hours of talks in New York, the deal was sealed at dawn on Wednesday, setting a new standard for women's professional basketball.

Key Highlights

• Higher Salary Cap – $7 million for 2026, up from $1.5 million the previous year.
• Increased Minimum Pay – over $300,000.
• Super‑max Starter – $1.4 million.
• Revenue Share – Players now earn a larger portion of league revenue, averaging around $600,000.
• Enhanced Benefits – Housing assistance, retirement plans, and family leave.

Impact on Players

• The 2026 cap is more than three‑quarters of the entire 2025 cap.
• Several players could earn a million dollars in a single season, a milestone first reached in 2020.
• The agreement ties earnings to the league’s growth, ensuring future financial security.

League Growth

Negotiation Journey

Earlier offers gave players only a small slice of revenue. The union’s firm stance—despite tense negotiations—proved that collective strength can secure better terms.

Looking Ahead

While the new deal is a significant win, it also illustrates how quickly sports economics can shift. If growth continues, the agreement may seem modest in a few years, yet it sets a higher standard for future talks.