WNBA Sets March 10 CBA Deadline to Preserve May 8 Season Start Date

The Womens National Basketball Association has reportedly set a firm March 10 deadline for completing collective bargaining agreement negotiations with the players union, warning that failure to reach a deal by that date could force a delay to the planned May 8 season start. The ultimatum intensifies pressure on both sides to resolve outstanding issues that have prolonged contract talks.

The March 10 deadline represents a critical juncture for a league experiencing unprecedented growth and popularity. WNBA officials believe this cutoff date provides the minimum time necessary to handle logistical preparations, including scheduling, marketing campaigns, and operational planning required for a smooth season launch.

Negotiations have centered around several key issues that reflect the leagues evolving financial landscape. Players are seeking significant increases in salary caps, improved travel accommodations, expanded parental leave benefits, and greater revenue sharing arrangements that acknowledge the WNBAs growing commercial success and television ratings.

The WNBA Players Association has been negotiating from a position of strength, pointing to record attendance figures, increased television viewership, and expanded corporate sponsorship deals that have transformed the leagues economic prospects. Union representatives argue that player compensation and working conditions must evolve to reflect this new reality.

Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement while acknowledging the complexity of the issues under discussion. The leagues rapid growth has created opportunities for both sides but also complicated negotiations as stakeholders work to balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability.

The potential for a delayed season start would be particularly damaging given the WNBAs momentum following a highly successful 2025 campaign. The league has worked diligently to build fan engagement and media attention, making any disruption to the 2026 season potentially costly for both players and the organization. With just two weeks remaining until the deadline, both sides face mounting pressure to finalize terms that will allow the WNBA to capitalize on its current popularity surge.