In October 2025, the WNBA announced that theChicago Sky will host the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game and related events for the second time in franchise history. The All-Star game will be played at theUnited Center on Saturday, July 25, while the three-point contest and Skills Challenge will take place on Friday, July 24, atWintrust Arena.[2][3]
The previous CBA was signed in January 2020, covering the 2020–2027 seasons. The agreement introduced increased salaries, maternity and family benefits, and improved travel conditions.
October 2024: The WNBPA officially notified the league of its intent to opt-out of the existing CBA.[4]
Spring 2025: Preliminary discussions began between league representatives and the union.[5]
July 2025: The WNBPA issued a public statement claiming that the league has "failed to meet players' priorities" in the early stages of negotiations.[6]
October 2025: Tensions escalated afterMinnesota Lynx forwardNapheesa Collier criticized league leadership, prompting WNBA CommissionerCathy Engelbert to respond that she will "do better" in rebuilding trust with players.[7]
October 30: It was announced that the WNBA and WNBPA had reached an agreement for a 30-day extension to continue negotiations.[8]
November 30: It was announced that the WNBA & WNBPA had reached an agreement to a 6-week extention pushing back the expiration deadline for the current CBA until January 9, 2026.[9]
December 18: The WNBPA announced that the union had authorized the executive committee to "call a strike when necessary" as players continue negotiations with the league over a new CBA.[10]
If no agreement is reached, the league could face a lockout or delayed start to the 2026 season.
The combined package is valued at approximately US $2.2 billion over 11 years, a substantial increase from the league's previous broadcast contracts.[23] The agreements are intended to enhance visibility, expand global distribution, and provide the league with a more stable revenue base as it enters a new decade of growth.[21]
Under the deal, Disney will continue to air regular-season and playoff games on its linear and digital platforms, including a rotating share of the WNBA Finals. NBCUniversal will carry weekly primetime doubleheaders and playoff coverage on USA Network and Peacock, while Amazon Prime Video will stream roughly 30 regular-season games per year worldwide. In select years, USA Network will also broadcast postseason series under the Versant agreement.[21][22]
Chris Koclanes
Sandy Brondello
Alex Sarama