WNBA and Players Association Sign Moratorium After CBA Deadline Passes
The WNBA and its players' association have officially signed a moratorium for all league business. This move comes after both sides failed to reach an agreement on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement by the January 9 deadline.
Extension Fails to Bridge Differences
Back in November, the WNBA and the WNBPA agreed to a six-week extension to work out their differences. They hoped to finalize a new CBA during this period. However, negotiations stalled, and no deal was reached by the extended deadline of January 9.
This failure prompted the league and the player association to take immediate action. They decided to sign a formal moratorium to maintain legal stability while talks continue.
ESPN Reporter Announces the Development
ESPN senior writer Ramona Shelburne broke the news on X on January 12, 2026. She revealed that sources confirmed the moratorium agreement between the WNBA and WNBPA.
Shelburne explained the necessity of this step. She wrote that it was required because the sides had not agreed on a new CBA or another extension by the January 9 cutoff.
What the Moratorium Means for the League
The moratorium effectively puts the initial stages of free agency on hold. Under normal circumstances, teams would now be delivering qualifying offers and franchise tag designations to players.
Shelburne emphasized this point in her announcement. She stated it did not make sense for teams to offer qualifying offers, core designations, or court free agents without a new CBA in place.
This pause allows the previous CBA rules to remain in effect. Both sides will continue negotiations under these existing terms. The arrangement also prevents the league or players from initiating a strike without proper notice, in compliance with US labor laws.
Players Remain United in Their Stance
WNBA Vice-President Napheesa Collier recently addressed the stalled negotiations. She expressed disappointment that more progress had not been made after approximately fifteen months of talks.
Collier stressed the importance of staying strong and upholding player values. She highlighted the unity among players, who are determined not to accept what they consider a bad deal.
The players are waiting for the league to respond to their proposals. They describe these proposals as thoughtful and reasonable, indicating a firm collective stance.
Key Issues at the Heart of the Dispute
Reports indicate that salaries and revenue sharing remain major sticking points. The moratorium provides a temporary solution while these critical financial issues are resolved.
Both sides acknowledge the need for a new agreement that addresses player compensation and league economics. The moratorium buys them additional time to negotiate without disrupting league operations.
Fans and teams now await further developments as the WNBA and WNBPA work toward a resolution that satisfies all parties involved.
