In early March 2026, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) reached a verbal agreement for a new collective bargaining agreement after more than 500 days of discussions that began following the league players' opt-out of the previous deal in 2020. Negotiations took place over eight days and involved 100 hours of discussions in Manhattan, reflecting a renewed commitment to players from league executives. The new agreement is significant as it aims to provide players with a more substantial share of the increased league and team revenues, which have notably risen due to improved performance, a surge in talent, and sizable media revenue, totaling over $200 million. The players demanded fair compensation to mirror the financial growth that the league is experiencing. Importantly, the new deal includes a revenue-sharing model that allows players to earn an average of 20 percent of the league's revenue each year without needing to hit specific trigger thresholds. As a result, the league will see its first million-dollar players, with the average salary set to rise dramatically from $120,000 in 2025 to approximately $600,000 in 2026. Moreover, there is an increase in the salary cap, which will start at $7 million and expand to $10 million by the end of the agreement. The deal also introduces provisions for developmental players on each team's roster and mandates teams to obtain player consent before trading pregnant athletes. This reflects a progressive attitude towards player rights and acknowledges the unique circumstances in women's sports. With the new CBA pending ratification, it signifies a pivotal point not only for the WNBA, celebrating its 30th season, but also for the greater landscape of women's sports, showcasing the combined efforts of players and the league to ensure a bright future for the sport.