The WNBA and the players union came to terms on a new CBA (collective bargaining agreement) that includes a salary bump for the league’s highest-paid players. It also includes changes to free agency, travel improvements, new motherhood, and family-planning benefits, enhanced marketing, and career development opportunities, and changes to the revenue sharing potential.
Salary Increase For Leagues Highest-Paid Players
Previous seasons the highest-paid players earned an annual salary of $117,500 in base salary, now it will be bumped up to $215,000 in base salary. The 2020 salary cap will be at $1.3 million, up from last seasons $996,100. The salary cap will increase three percent yearly in an eight-year period.
53% total cash compensation, consisting of base salary, additional performance bonuses, prize pools for newly crated in-season competitions, and league and team marketing deals. WNBA top players will be able to earn cash compensation of $500,000, and other top players can earn $300,000 and $200,000.
Maternity Leave
WNBA players will receive increased family benefits as part of the new CBA. The Players will receive full pay when they are out on maternity leave. Players will also receive a $5,000 stipend for childcare.
Better Travel
WNBA players will have access to premium economy class status on air travel. Each player will have there own hotel room on road trips. The Players will be able to address further travel concerns through the Player Advisory board.
Free Agency
Unrestricted free agency is available to players one year earlier than the previous agreement. It will begin in 2021. There will be a reduction in the number of times a player can receive the core designation. It will go from four to three beginning in 2020 season, dropping to two in the 2022 season.
Career Development and Life
The WNBA will work with affiliated leagues, teams, and sponsors will provide off-season job opportunities to help players prepare for the post-playing careers. Also, the league will advance in coaching initiatives for veteran players interested in coaching careers.
There will be enhanced mental health benefits and resources, and among many other essential things for the WNBA players. It’s about time ladies get what they deserve.
