Months after the end of the 2025 season, there are still no signs that we’re anywhere close to getting a new CBA. The league and the players’ association still don’t agree on what the revenue-sharing system should look like. With April fast approaching, fans are getting anxious and frustrated. Some direct that frustration at the league for lowballing the players, while others believe that the players’ “unrealistic” demands are the reason the season will likely be delayed.
Cameron Brink knows that it’s a complicated issue, but still hopes that fans will stick with the players during the negotiations.
“There’s so much, and it’s such a layered issue, but I would really just say to the fans and to the people that support us, please continue that support and let us know that we’re valid in what we’re asking for,” Brink said in a recent interview with ESPN. “As women, we’re made to feel bad about wanting more and advocating for more for ourselves, but I think it’s just so important to know your worth, and we know we’re worth more.”
For the players, there’s a lot more at stake in these negotiations than just whether the next season takes place and how much money they make, and fans should remember that. For the longest time, WNBA players were supposed to just be grateful that they had a league to play in. Now, they finally have the leverage to negotiate better facility standards, higher salaries, retirement and family planning benefits, and a fair share of the money they generate. At their very core, these negotiations are about respect and helping women’s sports take the next step forward.
Players got fans on board early
Fans who really care about women’s sports and the players in the WNBA were ready for lengthy CBA negotiations months ago. Even at the All-Star Game in July, fans filled Gainbridge Fieldhouse with “pay them” chants. In October, fans booed Commissioner Cathy Engelbert when the Aces won the championship and A’ja Wilson received her Finals MVP trophy. That’s the kind of support the players need.
By now, still not knowing if there will be a season is getting increasingly frustrating. But let’s not forget that it’s frustrating for the players, too. They want to play. Much of their income and opportunities with brands depend on successful WNBA seasons. They just don’t want to waste such a unique opportunity to fight for what they deserve and make sure that the next generations of players don’t have to endure the same hardships as previous generations.