The WNBA generated enough revenue in 2025 to trigger revenue sharing with players for the first time in league history.
Union leadership confirmed the milestone after the league notified players earlier this month that the required financial benchmark had been reached.
Under the current collective bargaining agreement, players are entitled to a share of revenue once predetermined thresholds are exceeded.
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WNBA revenue milestone unlocks first-ever player sharing payments
The 2020 CBA set revenue targets based on 2019 figures, increasing those benchmarks by 20 percent annually. Revenue losses during the pandemic-affected 2020 and 2021 seasons had previously made those targets appear difficult to reach.
For the first time, the league has now surpassed the threshold required to activate the revenue-sharing provision.
According to the union, $16 million in shared revenue was generated. Of that total, $8 million will be distributed to players who were active during the 2025 season, while the remaining $8 million will be allocated to league marketing agreements.
Under the terms of the CBA, players receive 50% of shared revenue, defined as revenue above the threshold minus 30% for expenses. The union has 30 days to submit its proposed distribution plan, and payments are due within 60 days of the league issuing its report.
Historic benchmark arrives during ongoing CBA negotiations
Union leaders have pointed to the milestone as proof of the league’s financial growth and the players’ expanding value.
“This shows our value and how what we’re fighting for makes sense and how we should keep fighting,” WNBPA treasurer Brianna Turner said.
In addition, $9.25 million in licensing revenue generated since 2020 is set to be distributed among more than 250 current and former players, with payments based on years played between 2020 and 2025. The union reported that group licensing revenue exceeded $10 million in 2025 alone.
The 2026 season is scheduled to begin May 8, though a finalized CBA must be agreed upon before then. As negotiations move forward, the revenue-sharing milestone stands as a landmark financial achievement for the league and its players.
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