WNBA players vote to strike 'when necessary' amid labor talks

The WNBA Players Association said Thursday that its members have authorized its executive committee to call for a strike "when necessary" as labor negotiations continue with the league.

"The players have spoken," the WNBPA said in a statement. "Through a decisive vote with historic participation, our membership has authorized the WNBPA's (seven-member) Executive Committee to call a strike when necessary. The players' decision is an unavoidable response to the state of negotiations with the WNBA and its teams."

The WNBPA said that 93% of eligible players voted this week and 98% of those favored authorizing a strike.

"Time and again, the players' thoughtful and reasonable approach has been met by the WNBA and its teams with a resistance to change and a recommitment to the draconian provisions that have unfairly restricted players for nearly three decades," the players union said. "The players' vote is neither a call for an immediate strike nor an intention to pursue one. Rather, it is an emphatic affirmation of the players' confidence in their leadership and their unwavering solidarity against ongoing efforts to divide, conquer, and undervalue them.

"Let it be known. The players remain united, resolute, and prepared to fight for their value and their future."

Labor talks were extended from the initial deadline of Oct. 31 to Nov. 30, then again just minutes before the collective bargaining agreement expired to Jan. 9, 2026.

The players exercised their opt-out of that agreement last year, with player salaries and the revenue-sharing model among their key issues. Other priorities include minimum standards in facilities, charter travel policies and expanded retirement and family planning benefits, ESPN reported.

In announcing the second extension, the WNBA said either party has the option to terminate the extension with 48 hours' advance notice.

Failure to reach an agreement could result in a work stoppage with the players going on strike or the owners initiating a lockout.

They also could continue with the current CBA or agree to a new one, though the sides seem far apart in negotiations, per reports.

The league issued a statement on Thursday following the players union's announcement about the players' vote.

"While we acknowledge the players' right to authorize a future work stoppage, we strongly disagree with the WNBPA's characterization of the current state of negotiations, which fundamentally misrepresents the ongoing discussions taking place at the bargaining table," the WNBA said. "It is difficult to understand claims that the league is resistant to change, particularly given that we are proposing numerous CBA modifications including significant immediate salary increases and a new uncapped revenue-sharing model that would ensure continued salary growth tied to revenue growth."

The league said it is committed to reaching an agreement as soon as possible and playing a 30th season in 2026. The WNBA has never missed games because of a strike or work stoppage.

"We have negotiated in good faith and with urgency, and remain focused on finalizing a new collective bargaining agreement that not only meaningfully enhances player pay, benefits, and experience, but also does so in a way that ensures the long-term growth of the game and the league's capacity to serve the next generation of WNBA players," the WNBA said in the statement.

--Field Level Media