WNBA players are about to see a major boost in pay. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has officially confirmed that the league is preparing significant salary increases for WNBA athletes as part of the upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations — a move that could reshape the future of women’s basketball.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Silver said the new CBA discussions will focus on “long-term financial sustainability and fairness” for players who have long been underpaid compared to their NBA counterparts. “We’re entering a transformative period for women’s basketball,” Silver said. “The growth, viewership, and fan engagement have all exploded in the past two seasons. It’s time the compensation reflects that success.”

The statement comes after a historic year for the WNBA, which saw record-breaking attendance, viewership, and sponsorship deals — driven by rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, and Sabrina Ionescu. The league’s visibility has never been higher, and Silver believes the financial model must evolve accordingly.

Former WNBA legend and current ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo also weighed in, praising the league’s direction but urging that negotiations lead to meaningful, lasting change. “This can’t just be a headline increase,” Lobo said. “Players deserve contracts that reflect their impact — not just on the court, but in growing the sport globally.”

According to league insiders, the proposed increases could include a significant jump in base salaries, higher revenue-sharing percentages, and expanded maternity and wellness benefits. Discussions also include greater marketing support for players, aiming to bridge the gap between individual sponsorship potential and team-driven exposure.

Lobo emphasized that this moment could mark a turning point for the WNBA. “The players have built this momentum,” she said. “Now it’s time for ownership and leadership to match that energy. These women have changed the conversation — they deserve to share in the rewards.”

Silver echoed that sentiment, crediting players for driving the league’s growth both on and off the court. “The passion, charisma, and authenticity of WNBA players have built one of the most dynamic brands in modern sports,” he said. “Our responsibility now is to ensure that success translates into real financial empowerment.”

Negotiations are expected to take place through early 2026, with both the WNBA Players Association and league representatives already in preliminary talks. Early reports suggest the next CBA could be one of the most player-friendly agreements in women’s professional sports history.

For many athletes, this shift represents more than a pay raise — it’s validation after decades of fighting for equality and respect. As Lobo put it, “When the league invests in its players, it invests in its future. And that future looks brighter than ever.”