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Paige Bueckers Sends Clear Message Amid WNBA Lockout Concerns

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mintu Tomar | Last updated Feb 25, 2026 9:25 PM ET

The WNBA and the players association are yet to reach a common ground regarding the collective bargaining agreement. March 10 is the new deadline for a final decision to prevent any uncertainty over the 2026 schedule. With no clear solution yet, there still seems to be a possibility of a delay or full cancelation of women's basketball action this season.

But Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers has got a positive update on the situation. In a recent interview with Elle, the 2025 Rookie of the Year gave a clear message on what she thinks about the 2026 WNBA season.

Bueckers, who is currently competing in the three-on-three league Unrivaled, spoke to Elle as part of the luxury brand Coach's new campaign "Explore Your Story." On the topic of WNBA, when she was asked, "is there going to be a season?" Bueckers simply replied, "Yes, there’ll be a season."

Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) celebrates after a WNBA game. Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Doubling down on her response, the former UConn star added, "We’re going to figure it out. I think everybody wants to capitalize on the momentum right now, so I think we’re going to figure it out. We’ll have a season."

It's worth noting that the WNBPA player body had authorized the union's executive committee, back in December, to call a strike "when necessary." So far, the player's association and the league haven't reached a solution on how the new revenue sharing system should work.

Starting the next season may not be a smooth ride going forward. It's because even if a deal is agreed upon between the players and the league, it may take weeks for an official confirmation, according to ESPN. Not to mention the WNBA still needs to conduct a two-team expansion draft for Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire. Plus, a free agency also needs to be held for 80% of the league. In short, time is running out.

While Bueckers is hopeful for the next season, everything still depends on whether there comes a solution over the CBA by March 10.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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