WNBPA ratifies new collective bargaining agreement in unanimous vote. Here's what's next

The WNBA and players' union reached a verbal agreement on a collective bargaining agreement. IndyStar Fever insider Chloe Peterson explains what's next. * The WNBA players' union has unanimously ratified the new 2026 collective bargaining agreement. * The new CBA includes a significantly increased salary cap, higher player salaries, and improved benefits. * League and team owners must now vote to ratify the agreement for it to be finalized. The transformative collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players' union is one step closer to being codified. The WNBPA announced Monday morning that union members have ratified the 2026 WNBA CBA with a unanimous vote in over 90% player participation. "This moment is the result of years of work and a shared belief that as the league rises, so must the players," the union said in a statement. "Too often, women have been told to be grateful for the opportunity. This union sees it differently. It is about knowing our worth and having the courage to demand more, not just for ourselves, but for those coming next." The new collective bargaining agreement includes a salary cap of $7 million (over four times the 2025 salary cap of $1.5 million), a $1.5 million supermax salary, minimum salary of $270,000, and increased housing, retirement, and pregnancy benefits. Buy 2026 Indiana Fever tickets! The next step, WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike said on First Take on Monday morning, is for the CBA to go back to the league for approval. League and team owners will need to vote to ratify the agreement. After the agreement has been ratified by both sides, it will be signed by league and union representatives. Then, the rush of a condensed offseason -- including an expansion draft, free agency, and collegiate draft -- will push the league toward a April 19 training camp opener. Chloe Peterson is the Indiana Fever beat reporter for IndyStar. Reach her at capeterson@gannett.com or follow her on X at @chloepeterson67. Get IndyStar's Indiana Fever and Caitlin Clark coverage sent directly to your inbox with our Caitlin Clark Fever newsletter. Subscribe to IndyStar's YouTube channel for Fever Insiders Live.