The negotiations over the WNBA collective bargaining agreement have been the hottest topic surrounding the league this year. But as fans await a positive resolution, a new update from Sophie Cunningham has now painted a bleak picture of the ongoing talks between the players and the league’s front office.
Cunningham, who most recently played for the Indiana Fever, is one of many free agents waiting on a decision so they can sort out their contract for next season.
But she has been vocal in her support of the WNBPA’s fight for the players’ demands, including criticizing commissioner Cathy Engelbert after her controversial comments last month.
Cunningham spoke out lately about the current progress of the CBA talks and fans won’t be pleased to learn that the outlook isn’t so positive as hoped.
During an interview with Annie Costibile of Front Office Sports this week, Cunningham said there hasn’t been much momentum in the direction of an agreement.
“There’s really not a lot to talk about … on [the players’] end until there’s a new CBA. And I think that’s how it is across the league,” Cunningham said.
“I think the last meeting was about two weeks ago. I know our execs are talking with their people every single day. I don’t think there’s been much movement. I think at least there’s communication, so that’s the biggest thing for us,” she added.
According to Sophie Cunningham, the players are still standing strong on their demands despite the slow pace of the ongoing negotiations.
However, with the original CBA deadline already being extended once and the new November 30 date fast approaching, it remains to be seen whether there will be a 2026 WNBA season.
