Amid the unprecedented growth, rising media attention, and expanding fan interest that have come the WNBA's way, the league now finds itself at a critical crossroads. With the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) set to expire on October 31, 2025, a potential lockout looms on the horizon.
For the first time in the W's history, the possibility of a lockout has become a serious threat, one that could shape the future of women’s professional basketball for years to come. Let's explore the roots of the current labor standoff, the key issues at stake, the broader implications of a lockout, and the scenarios that may unfold as the WNBA and its players negotiate the next phase of the league’s evolution.
What is a lockout?
A lockout is a work stoppage initiated by management, in this c