The WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) have reportedly agreed to a moratorium that will suspend free agency until a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is signed. According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, this decision came after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a new CBA or an extension before the deadline on Friday passed.
As the previous deal expired, the parties reverted to “status quo,” extending the conditions of the former CBA until a new agreement is finalized. However, since free agency under those terms was scheduled to begin on Sunday, the league and the union decided to impose a moratorium on free agency transactions until a new deal is reached.
### Fan Reactions and Concerns
The development in the WNBA CBA negotiations sparked reactions from fans, many of whom expressed concerns about the league’s future. One fan tweeted, “WNBA Is Shutting Down,” reflecting the worry among supporters. Other fan reactions also surfaced, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the negotiations.
### Preparations Amid Uncertainty
Per Shelburne, the WNBA instructed its teams last week to prepare for offering qualifying offers, core designations, and courting free agents. However, players are reportedly hesitant to sign contracts without a new CBA in place, as they anticipate increased salaries and improved compensation structures.
### WNBA and WNBPA Still “Far Apart” in Negotiations
The WNBA and the players’ union continue their discussions on a new CBA but remain “far apart,” according to Shelburne. One of the key points of contention centers around the structure of a revenue-sharing model.
Free agency rules are also under negotiation. The WNBPA reportedly wants to eliminate the core player designation, which currently allows teams to retain control over their unrestricted free agents. Conversely, The Athletic’s Sabreena Mechant reports that the WNBA is firm on maintaining the core player rules as they are.
Changing the core designation rules could affect the league’s expansion process, including the expansion drafts for the Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
### What’s Next for the League and Players?
Despite the moratorium on free agency transactions, WNBA teams are still allowed to communicate with their players. Moreover, league and team facilities remain open for players’ offseason workouts.
In addition to existing resources, the WNBPA has launched a network of training facilities across the United States and Spain to support players during this period of uncertainty.
As negotiations continue, fans and stakeholders alike are watching closely, hopeful that the WNBA and its players will soon reach a mutually beneficial agreement that supports the league’s growth and stability.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/wnba/news-wnba-is-shutting-down-fans-hit-chaos-wnbpa-locks-moratorium-following-failed-cba-talks