In both college and the WNBA, the women’s basketball phenomenon has propelled her sport to unprecedented heights of popularity. When the Liberty defeated the Lynx in Game 5 of the WNBA Finals on Sunday night, the league surpassed its record for the most viewers in the same week. The league is also dealing with a significant player-owner negotiation.
This week, the WNBPA, the union representing WNBA players, decided to opt out of its existing agreement with the league. As they negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the league, the players may ask for more revenue share and other benefits. The end of the next season marks the expiration of the existing CBA.
The WNBA may have a player in the works if an agreement cannot be reached.
Even though the league’s ratings and merchandise sales increased, it is still expected to lose money this year. In its history, the WNBA has never experienced a profitable season.
