The WNBA and its players association have agreed to a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), setting the stage for the 2026 season and improved opportunities for players.
Since the deal was ratified, several players have shared their reactions to how historic it is. However, one quote circulating online has taken things further than expected.
A quote falsely attributed to WNBA star Brittney Griner has been spreading across social media, claiming she credited Angel Reese — not Caitlin Clark — for the new CBA deal.
“Thank (Clark) for what? That was all Angel Reese. She’s the one who shifted the culture.. She made them listen.”
The quote is not real. It originated from Empire Sports, a satire/parody site known for publishing fabricated stories. Despite this, several large X accounts continue to share it for engagement.
Clark and Reese remain two of the WNBA’s biggest stars, and both have advocated for the CBA alongside their fellow players.
However, neither player is part of the negotiating panel. The WNBPA negotiating group for the 2026 CBA, led by Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson, includes key Executive Committee members Nneka Ogwumike (President), Kelsey Plum and Breanna Stewart.
Notable Details of Historic WNBA CBA
Revenue sharing was among the key priorities pushed by the WNBPA, and it was secured. According to ESPN, players will receive 20% of the previous year’s gross revenue under the agreed terms.
Additionally, the average salary for a first-round pick in 2026 is projected to be $386,000. Meanwhile, the No. 1 overall pick could earn more than $2.2 million upon completing her rookie-scale contract.
Clark is also set to receive a significant salary increase under the new CBA, with the third year of her rookie deal expected to be nearly $530,000.
Minimum salaries will now be tiered based on years of service, starting at $270,000. Players with one to three years of experience will earn at least $277,500; $285,000 for four to six years; $292,500 for seven to nine years; and $300,000 for those with 10 or more years. These figures will increase annually by 4%.
The standard maximum salary for 2026 will be $1.19 million, or 17% of the $7 million salary cap. According to the agreement, the maximum salary will rise alongside the cap, which is projected to exceed $11 million by 2032.
