WNBA Rumors: League Discusses Free Agency Moratorium Amid CBA Drama appeared first on Clutch Points. Add ClutchPoints as Favorite source by clicking here.
THE The WNBA and WNBPA prepare for a hot spot as free agency approaches with the ABC now expired and discussions are becoming more and more tense in the league. Sources told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne and Alexa Philippou that both sides are open to discuss a possible moratorium. This would pause free agency, qualifying deals and core designations as negotiations continue. This proposal is separate from the CBA negotiations. Yet it shows how fragile this moment is. The fans can feel it. The air is tight under the arena lights.
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The WNBPA Put this tension into sharp words Friday. In its statement, the union said, “At midnight, the 2020 WNBA-WNBPA Collective Bargaining Agreement will expire. Despite our willingness to compromise in order to reach an agreement, the WNBA and its teams have failed to bring us to the table with the same spirit and seriousness.” He added that the league has “remained committed to undervaluing player contributions, ignoring player concerns and running out of time.”
WNBA players draw a line
The WNBPA added: “Today’s display of an inflatable rat, a universal symbol of union protest… draws attention to how the league and its teams have handled these negotiations.” The statement went on to warn that the delays “put players’ livelihoods at risk.” He also said they damaged fans’ trust and investment. WNBA free agency is at stake.
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The union emphasized its connection with its supporters. “The players care deeply about their fans and are proud to honor that loyalty every time they step onto the field,” it reads. Then came the hard line. “This misguided approach will not work.” The WNBPA called for “a salary system tied to a significant share of revenue.” It also demanded “professional working conditions” and protections for the next generation.
The language reflects how tense the moment has become as the WNBA and the WNBPA find themselves in an impasse with the ABC with league operations at stake. The message ended unambiguously. “Make no mistake. Pay equity is not optional and progress is long overdue.” A moratorium remains on the table as the deadline approaches. When the ball is finally put into play, what breaks first?
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