NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reaffirmed his belief that WNBA players are set for major salary increases under the league’s upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which is due to expire on October 31. Speaking on NBC’s Today show ahead of the NBA season opener, Silver emphasized his confidence that both sides will reach a new deal soon. He made it clear that significant pay raises are coming, adding that the athletes “deserve it” for their contributions to the growth of women’s basketball.
Silver explained that discussions around WNBA pay shouldn’t be compared directly to NBA revenues because the leagues generate vastly different amounts of income. Instead, he suggested focusing on absolute figures, highlighting that players’ earnings would see a “big increase” in the next bargaining cycle. The commissioner’s comments come amid ongoing debate about fair compensation for WNBA players, whose current salaries range from around $66,000 to $249,000, with teams limited by a $1.5 million salary cap.
The players have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with current pay scales. During this year’s WNBA All-Star Game, athletes wore shirts reading “Pay us what you owe us,” sending a clear message about their frustration and demands for change. Last year, the WNBPA (players’ association) exercised its right to opt out of the existing CBA, seeking better revenue sharing, higher pay, improved benefits, and more flexibility within the salary cap system.
While the exact differences between the league’s and players’ proposals remain unclear, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has stated that the league is also aiming for a “transformative deal.” She noted that both sides share a desire to secure a new agreement that significantly boosts salaries and player welfare. This mutual interest in progress has sparked optimism that a deal may be close, despite tough negotiations.
Las Vegas Aces owner Mark Davis, who also owns the NFL’s Raiders, expressed confidence that an agreement will be reached soon. Following his team’s WNBA Finals victory, Davis said the focus should be on unity rather than division. “We’ll get it right,” he said. “If we look at this as togetherness and work to make the future better, that’s what matters most.” His comments echoed Silver’s sentiments — that meaningful, overdue changes are on the horizon for WNBA players.
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