At the beginning of the year, the WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association) placed a bet on themselves. The new decade saw a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that would propel women’s basketball to new heights, and bring the WNBA a baby step closer to the men's league (NBA).
Unlike the men’s teams, who get private and charter flights, female athletes who stand at 6ft+, were expected to travel via commercial airlines, in economy class with no extra leg room. Moreover, under the old CBA, the highest possible salary for a player was $117,000 USD, while the lowest possible salary for a male is $898,000 USD.
The new agreement between the league and its players, details an improvement in both of these areas as well as other enhancements that further the growth and experience for female athletes, the league and the sport in general. Although the gap between male and female athletes is still vast, with the implementation of this, the future of women’s basketball is looking a little less bleak, and the future is looking female.
Highlights of the new agreement:
The annual base pay for the league’s highest-paid player rises from $117,500 to $215,000. With other benefits, the league’s top players could earn cash compensation in excess of $500,000.
The 2020 salary cap rises to $1.3 million, up from $996,100.
Players receive full salary while on parental leave, an annual child-care stipend of $5,000 and a guarantee of two-bedroom apartments for players with children.
Enhanced travel standards that include premium economy-class status for all players during regular-season air travel — the league will provide first-class seats for players for the All-Star Game — and individual hotel rooms for every player.
A minimum of $1.6 million in off-season league and team marketing agreements that recognize top performance and highlight the diversity of the league. Creation of a fund of up to $300,000 in additional annual cash compensation for select players.
A minimum of $750,000 in prize money for special competitions, including a Commissioners Cup in the 2021 season.
New 50-50 revenue-sharing beginning with the 2021 season, based on the league achieving revenue growth targets from broadcast agreements, marketing partnerships and licensing deals.
Increases in cash bonuses with performance awards such as MVP, and new cash bonuses for players earning All-WNBA honors.