New WNBA CBA Boosts Pay, Rosters, and Schedule Prospects

The WNBA and the players’ union signed a new CBA that significantly raises salaries and the cap (to $7 million in 2026, with a projection of $11 million by 2032), adds housing for the first three years and expanded retirement benefits, introduces two developmental roster spots, and creates an expedited path for top players to reach max contracts via EPIC; a phased core-service rule starts in 2027, allowing stars like Kelsey Mitchell, Caitlin Clark, and Aliyah Boston to renegotiate toward larger deals. The 2026 season remains at 44 games, with potential for 50–52 games in later seasons.