WNBA players remain determined to avoid a lockout with team owners, viewing the league’s latest offer as a potential win for the WNBA Players Association (WNBPA).

“I want to play, and players want to play,” said Kelsey Plum, WNBPA first vice president, on Monday ahead of the Unrivaled semifinals in New York. “We’re going to continue to negotiate and do everything we can to get this done in a timely fashion. A strike would be the worst outcome for both sides because we operate under a revenue-sharing system — no revenue means nothing to share.”

Negotiations are still centered on the gap between the players’ requested revenue share and the league’s current offer. Players submitted a proposal on Friday requesting 26% of gross revenue (before expenses) along with allowances for housing and travel. The WNBA labeled the request “unrealistic,” warning it could result in significant financial losses.

Plum serves on a player-led executive panel working to protect the regular-season schedule and prevent any form of lockout. The WNBPA has been given a March 10 deadline to agree to a term sheet, with the league cautioning that delays could risk lost games and revenue.

“Right now, it’s not really a negotiation anymore,” said Paige Bueckers. “We need to have conversations that lead to real change. As players, we don’t want to strike — we want a season. I love playing basketball. But there are professional matters that still need to be handled.”

Veteran player Brittney Griner, who turns 36 in October, highlighted the significance of progress compared to past collective bargaining agreements that “didn’t value” players. The league’s latest proposal would also allow players to reach higher maximum contracts sooner. For example, a player named to the All-WNBA First or Second Team could receive the max extension in the fourth year of their rookie deal.

Breanna Stewart noted that neither side has a final proposal ready for voting, as adjustments are still needed. Natasha Cloud emphasized concerns over mid-range salaries, pointing out that the league’s offer would remove housing allowances and still leave many players underpaid.

Plum remains optimistic about continued talks. “I’ve always focused on the gain, not the gap. The progress we’ve made since I entered the league, especially moving into a revenue-sharing model, is a tremendous win,” she said. “We’ll keep negotiating, and I’m proud to be part of an opportunity to change women’s sports.”

—Field Level Media/Reuters