NBA Commissioner Silver Hints at Significant Raises for WNBA Players

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced on October 3, 2023, that he anticipates substantial salary increases for players in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) during the upcoming collective bargaining negotiations. Speaking on NBC’s “Today” show, Silver addressed the issue of revenue sharing and player compensation ahead of the NBA season opener.

When questioned about whether WNBA players deserve a larger share of the league’s revenue, Silver acknowledged the disparity in earnings between the men’s and women’s leagues. “Yes,” he stated unequivocally. He emphasized that the focus should not solely be on revenue share percentages but rather on the actual earnings of WNBA players. “They are going to get a big increase in this cycle of collective bargaining, and they deserve it,” he added, highlighting the need for changes in player compensation.

The WNBA operates under a collective bargaining agreement that is set to expire on October 31, 2023. This labor agreement was once regarded as a groundbreaking contract for women’s sports but is now considered inadequate by many within the league. The increasing popularity of the WNBA has intensified calls for better compensation. Players are not seeking to match the salaries of their NBA counterparts, but they are advocating for a revenue share that reflects their contributions to the league’s success.

In July, WNBA players used the platform of the league’s All-Star Game to voice their demands. During pre-game warm-ups, players donned T-shirts proclaiming slogans such as “Pay Us What You Owe Us.” The event culminated in fans rallying behind the players, chanting “Pay them!” as the game concluded. This grassroots support signifies the growing momentum for change within the league.

Any disruption to the upcoming season, particularly in 2026, could hinder the progress the WNBA has made in recent years. The league is set to welcome two new franchises in Portland and Toronto in 2024, further expanding its footprint. As the WNBA continues to grow, the urgency for improved player salaries and benefits remains at the forefront of discussions.

As negotiations commence, the spotlight is on the WNBA and its players to ensure that their contributions are recognized and appropriately compensated in a rapidly evolving sports landscape.