Would a WNBA Lockout Be Bad? Yes — But It Might Also Be Necessary
The WNBA is in the midst of a breakout era, with rising stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and others drawing record viewership, sold-out arenas, and headline-making moments. But as the league grows, so do the tensions between what’s being generated on the court, and what’s being paid off it.
As of July 12, 2025, the WNBA and the players’ union (WNBPA) have until October 31, 2025, to agree on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). That gives them 111 days to reach a deal and avoid a potential lockout.
A lockout would unquestionably stall the league’s momentum. It could halt games, frustrate fans, and disrupt the rising energy around women’s basketball. Casual viewers might lose interest. Sponsors could rethink their investments. Smaller-market teams may face financial struggles.
But amid those risks is a more profound truth: WNBA players are demanding what they’ve long been denied—respect, fairness, and proper compensation.
For years, many players have had to compete overseas during the offseason to make a living. Some still fly commercial while generating millions in value for their teams. Now, with record attention and revenue coming into the league, the players are ready to draw a line.
If that means sacrificing today’s games to secure tomorrow’s progress, they are willing to do it.
A lockout would be painful. It would slow down growth. But it would also send a message that these women are not just athletes—they are professionals demanding equity.
No one wants a lockout. But sometimes, progress means standing still long enough to take a bigger step forward.
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