Sources: WNBA sets deadline to keep '26 intact

The WNBA has set a deadline for reaching a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by March 10 to ensure that the 2026 schedule remains unaffected, according to sources reported by ESPN. This announcement was made to both the union and the teams, highlighting the urgency of finalizing the agreement to maintain the league's operational timeline. In recent developments, the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) submitted a new counterproposal to the WNBA, which included some concessions on revenue sharing and housing. This proposal was presented on Friday evening, indicating a willingness from the players' association to negotiate terms. The WNBA's latest CBA proposal, also submitted on Friday, marks the end of a more than six-week wait for a counteroffer from the league. Notably, the WNBA's new proposal includes provisions to guarantee housing for all players starting in 2026, which is the first time the league has made concessions regarding this issue. However, the proposal reportedly lacks significant updates to revenue sharing, which remains a critical point of contention in the negotiations. The focus on housing represents a step forward in addressing player concerns, but the ongoing discussions about financial equity within the league indicate that further negotiations will be necessary. As both sides continue to work towards a resolution, the outcome of these negotiations will be closely monitored. The emphasis on reaching an agreement by the March 10 deadline underscores the importance of addressing the needs of the players while ensuring the league's sustainability moving forward.