The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has rapidly grown in popularity, revenue, media coverage, and player advocacy. As discussions around pay equity, charter flights, and labor rights gain momentum, many fans ask: Has the WNBA ever had a lockout?
Has There Ever Been a WNBA Lockout?
No — the WNBA has never experienced a lockout or player strike.
Since its establishment in 1997, the league has gone through several collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations and opt-outs, but none have resulted in a work stoppage. Unlike major men’s leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, which have all faced work stoppages, the WNBA has successfully resolved labor conflicts through negotiation and collaboration.
Major Moments in WNBA Labor Negotiations
2018 CBA Opt-Out and New 2020 CBA
- The WNBPA (players union) opted out of the existing CBA in 2018 due to concerns about salaries, travel standards, and maternity protections.
- While some feared a lockout, both sides negotiated constructively.
- The result was a groundbreaking 2020 CBA that introduced:
- Higher average and maximum salaries
- Charter flight upgrades for major events
- Paid maternity leave and childcare benefits
- Revenue-sharing and performance bonuses
The deal was completed without any lockout or strike.
2023 CBA Early Termination Window
- Players had the option to terminate the 2020 CBA early and renegotiate.
- The union decided to remain under the agreement, without conflict.
- Instead of labor tension, discussions focused on media rights growth, expansion teams, and long-term financial security.
Again, there was no lockout.
Why the WNBA Has Avoided Lockouts
Several factors help maintain labor peace:
- Smaller league size and closer owner-player communication
- Unified goals between players and league executives
- Strong focus on long-term growth rather than near-term conflict
- Less contentious revenue splits compared to larger men’s leagues
Lockout vs. Strike: Key Differences
| Term | Initiated By | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Lockout | League/Owners | Players are barred from playing until a labor deal is reached |
| Strike | Players | Players refuse to play until demands are addressed |
The WNBA has experienced neither.
How the WNBA Compares to Other Pro Sports Leagues
| League | Work Stoppage History |
|---|---|
| WNBA | No lockouts or strikes |
| NBA | 1998–99 and 2011 lockouts |
| NFL | 2011 lockout |
| MLB | Strikes and lockouts including 2022 |
| NHL | Lockouts in 1994, 2004, 2012 |
Could the WNBA Face a Future Lockout?
While labor peace has held strong, future negotiations could focus on:
- Full-season charter flight access
- Expanded revenue sharing as league revenue increases
- Media rights deals and player marketing opportunities
- Team expansion and roster size increases
However, based on past trends, the WNBA is likely to maintain its collaborative negotiation approach.
Final Answer
The WNBA has never had a lockout or player strike.
Despite major labor negotiations and CBA opt-outs, all issues have been resolved without disrupting seasons.