Kelsey Plum calls WNBA revenue share offer a ‘significant win’ amid talks
WNBPA vice-president Kelsey Plum has described the league’s latest collective bargaining offer as a “significant win” while warning a strike would be the “worst thing” for the sport.
The Las Vegas Aces guard insisted players are eager to return to the court but acknowledged that further negotiations are required to finalise the deal.
Speaking ahead of Unrivaled semifinal games in New York, the union executive emphasised the mutual damage a work stoppage would cause.
“I want to play, and players want to play,” Plum said.
“Obviously a strike would be the worst thing for both sides, because we are in a revenue sharing system, so no revenue, no revenue to share.”
Revenue sharing dispute remains
Discussions between the two parties have been ongoing for nearly 17 months after the players opted out of the previous agreement.
A significant gap remains regarding financial distribution, with the union seeking 30% of gross revenue before expenses.
In contrast, league officials have proposed a model offering 70% of net revenue, which the WNBPA argues amounts to less than 15% of the gross total.
Despite the disparity, the inclusion of a revenue-sharing model marks a historic shift for the competition.
“Getting the league to agree to a revenue sharing system for the first time… is something we fought really hard for,” Plum added.
Season deadlines approaching
The spectre of a potential strike has loomed since the player body authorised the executive committee to take action if necessary in December.
Time is becoming a factor, with the regular season tip-off scheduled for 8 May.
League administrators have set a target date of 10 March to complete a term sheet to ensure the schedule remains unaffected.
However, the former number one draft pick remains focused on the progress made rather than the remaining hurdles.
“I’ve always been someone that’s focused on the gain, not the gap,” said Plum.
“Obviously, we’re going to continue to negotiate. I can’t emphasize that enough. Like we’re not just settling.”