What's Happening?
Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell is poised to become a highly sought-after player in the upcoming free agency period, as the WNBA and the players' union continue negotiations on a new collective bargaining
agreement (CBA). The CBA talks are crucial for Mitchell, an elite scorer and three-time All-Star, who lacks the off-court income of peers like A'ja Wilson. The Fever have 'cored' Mitchell, allowing her to earn a supermax salary but preventing her from signing with other teams. The new CBA could change the core designation rules, potentially allowing Mitchell more freedom in choosing her team.
Why It's Important?
The outcome of the CBA negotiations could significantly impact the financial landscape of the WNBA, affecting players' salaries and revenue-sharing agreements. For Mitchell, changes in the core designation could offer greater autonomy in her career decisions, influencing her future with the Indiana Fever. The negotiations also highlight broader issues within the league, such as the disparity in off-court income among players and the push for a revenue-sharing model similar to the NBA.
What's Next?
With 20 days remaining for the WNBA and WNBPA to finalize the CBA, the league faces a potential work stoppage if an agreement is not reached. The announcement of the WNBA Draft Lottery has sparked optimism, suggesting progress in negotiations. If the core designation rule changes, Mitchell and other star players could have more control over their careers, potentially leading to surprising team changes in 2026.
