WNBPA members vote to strike 'when necessary'

"Through a decisive vote with historic participation, our membership has authorized the WNBPA's Executive Committee to call a strike when necessary. The players' decision is an unavoidable response to the state of negotiations with the WNBA and its teams."

"Time and again, the players' thoughtful and reasonable approach has been met by the WNBA and its teams with a resistance to change and a recommitment to the draconian provisions that have unfairly restricted players for nearly three decades. The players' vote is neither a call for an immediate strike nor an intention to pursue one. Rather, it is an emphatic affirmation of the players' confidence in their leadership and their unwavering solidarity against ongoing efforts to divide, conquer, and undervalue them. Let it be known. The players remain united, resolute, and prepared to fight for their value and their future."

The WNBPA membership voted overwhelmingly to authorize the union's executive committee to call a strike when necessary during stalled collective bargaining with the WNBA. The authorization responded to persistent negotiation impasses and player frustration with restrictive provisions in place for decades. The vote does not signal an immediate strike but empowers leadership and signals unity and resolve among players. A strike would be the first labor stoppage in WNBA history. The sides previously extended the CBA deadline multiple times, most recently to Jan. 9, yet negotiations remain far apart and players have expressed deep unhappiness.

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