WNBA Stars Angel Reese and DiJonai Carrington Signal Potential Strike Ahead of Critical CBA Negotiations

The landscape of women’s professional basketball is on the brink of transformation as WNBA stars Angel Reese and DiJonai Carrington have hinted at a potential players’ strike amid ongoing negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Their comments have sparked intense discussions among fans, analysts, and stakeholders, with the league’s future direction at stake.

A Looming Player Strike: What We Know So Far

The conversation around a possible strike surfaced prominently on Reese’s podcast, Unapologetically Angel.

During an episode, Reese openly addressed growing concerns among WNBA players regarding their compensation and working conditions.

She referenced discussions about players possibly “sitting out” if the league fails to meet their expectations in the upcoming CBA negotiations.

Carrington, a fellow WNBA star, echoed Reese’s sentiments, confirming that a strike is being seriously considered as a leverage tool.

Their statements reflect growing frustration within the league, where players have long advocated for better salaries, improved working conditions, and increased revenue sharing from lucrative media and sponsorship deals.

Why the WNBPA Opted Out of the Current CBA

In October 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) exercised its right to opt out of the existing CBA, which was originally set to run through 2027.

This move accelerates negotiations, setting a new expiration date of October 2025.

By opting out, the players’ union signaled a clear demand for significant improvements in player treatment, compensation, and benefits.

The decision places additional pressure on the league’s front office and team owners to address longstanding grievances.

Key Issues Driving the Potential Strike

1. Low WNBA Salaries Compared to Revenue Growth

Despite the league’s recent economic growth, including an 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights deal, WNBA player salaries remain a contentious issue.

Angel Reese, who was the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has publicly expressed her dissatisfaction with the current salary structure.

According to Reese, her WNBA salary does not even cover all her living expenses, forcing her—like many others—to rely on overseas contracts or endorsement deals to supplement income.

The average WNBA salary is significantly lower than those in male professional sports leagues, despite the league’s increasing popularity and revenue potential.

The WNBA’s minimum salary is approximately $75,000, while the maximum contract hovers around $250,000. By contrast, NBA players earn millions, even in their rookie contracts.

2. Revenue Sharing and Fair Compensation

A major point of contention in the upcoming CBA negotiations is revenue distribution.

Players are advocating for a fairer share of the league’s financial growth, including profits from television deals, merchandise sales, and endorsements.

The recent media deal, expected to bring in an average of $200 million annually, has intensified demands for increased salaries and benefits.

WNBA players currently receive a much smaller percentage of league revenue compared to their NBA counterparts.

In the NBA, players receive roughly 50% of total revenue, while WNBA players take home a significantly lower share.

The upcoming CBA negotiations provide an opportunity for the players’ union to push for a fairer revenue split.

3. Travel Conditions and Player Welfare

Another key issue players have raised is the subpar travel accommodations within the WNBA.

Unlike the NBA, where teams fly on private jets, WNBA teams often travel on commercial flights, leading to logistical challenges and concerns about player safety.

In recent seasons, multiple incidents have highlighted the need for improved travel conditions, including flight delays and limited recovery time between games.

Players have been vocal about the toll that inadequate travel arrangements take on their performance and overall health.

4. Expansion and Investment in the League

With the WNBA expanding in popularity, many players and advocates believe that the league should focus on sustainable expansion—both in terms of additional teams and higher investments in existing franchises.

More teams would mean more roster spots, alleviating the league’s issue of talented players being cut due to limited slots.

Additionally, investment in marketing, facilities, and support staff is crucial for the league’s continued growth.

Players want to see team owners and league officials commit to making the WNBA more competitive and financially stable in the long run.

The Growing Support for WNBA Players’ Rights

Public support for WNBA players has increased as awareness of wage disparities and working conditions has grown.

Fans, journalists, and even NBA players have voiced support for the movement to improve player treatment.

NBA superstars, including LeBron James and Steph Curry, have previously spoken about the need for higher WNBA salaries and better league conditions.

Social media has also played a vital role in amplifying the voices of WNBA players, with hashtags like #PayWNBAPlayers and #InvestInWomen’sSports trending during key moments in the league.

This increased visibility adds pressure on the WNBA’s leadership to address player concerns in the upcoming CBA discussions.

What Happens if the Players Strike?

If WNBA players go on strike, it would have major implications for the league, potentially delaying or even canceling part of the 2026 season.

A strike would not only impact games but also force league executives and team owners to accelerate negotiations to prevent financial and reputational losses.

Potential Outcomes of a Strike

• League and owners meet demands: If the WNBA agrees to significant changes in salaries, revenue sharing, and working conditions, the strike could be avoided or resolved quickly.
• Partial lockout or shortened season: If negotiations stall, a lockout could delay the season’s start or result in a shorter schedule.
• Legal and financial battles: The WNBA’s legal team and player representatives may have to navigate complex contract disputes, impacting players’ financial stability.

Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for the WNBA

The upcoming CBA negotiations will be a defining moment in WNBA history.

With players like Angel Reese and DiJonai Carrington leading the charge, the movement for fair compensation and better conditions is gaining momentum.

Whether through successful negotiations or a high-profile strike, the outcome of this dispute will shape the league’s future for years to come.

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and financial power, the question remains: will the league take the necessary steps to support and empower its players?

The answer will not only impact those currently in the league but also set a precedent for future generations of women’s basketball players.