Watch: WNBA players tell fans about CBA opt-out with video

A general view of WNBA basketballs. Mark Smith-Imagn Images

Watch: WNBA players tell fans about CBA opt-out with social media video

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated Oct 21, 2024 4:25 PM ET

The stars of the WNBA are ready to get down to business — and they said just as much on social media on Monday.

It was a busy Monday for the league, as ESPN reported that elected members of the Women's National Basketball Players Association announced that players are opting out of their current collective bargaining agreement.

Less than an hour later, the WNBPA released a video to social media with the tagline "It's Business."

The WNBPA Board of Player Representatives and WNBPA Executive Committee have decided to opt out of the 2020 WNBA/WNBPA CBA on behalf of the collective.

It's Business.#BetOnWomen

:@Tubi
Seattle Storm (YouTube) pic.twitter.com/zZoOdfMoDE
— WNBPA (@TheWNBPA) October 21, 2024

"Opting out isn't just about bigger paychecks — it's about claiming our rightful share of the business we've built, improving working conditions, and securing a future where the success we create benefits today's players and the generations to come," Seattle Storm forward and WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike said, via ESPN. "We're not just asking for a CBA that reflects our value; we're demanding it, because we've earned it."

Union sources have told ESPN that players are prepared to negotiate "for as long as it takes" even if that means there is a work stoppage in 2025.

ESPN's sources said that players are aiming for an equity-based economic model "that grows and evolves with the league's increased business success." The league is expanding and adding three franchises over the next two seasons.

Players are also looking for improvements in areas such as salaries, child care and retirement benefits, ESPN said.

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