What's Happening?
New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart is set to join the Turkish basketball team Fenerbahçe in April for the EuroLeague Women Final Six tournament, scheduled from April 15-19. This move comes as the WNBA season is poised to begin on May 8, contingent upon a new collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players' union. Stewart, who is also a vice president of the players' union, has expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, highlighting a shift in the owners' receptiveness to players' demands. The previous collective bargaining agreement included a prioritization rule requiring veterans to report by the start of training camp or face suspension for the season. Stewart's participation in the EuroLeague will conclude in time
for her to attend the WNBA training camp, assuming the season starts as planned.
Why It's Important?
Breanna Stewart's involvement with Fenerbahçe underscores the growing trend of WNBA players participating in international leagues during the off-season, which can impact their availability for the WNBA. The ongoing negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement are crucial, as they will determine the financial and operational framework for the upcoming WNBA season. The outcome of these negotiations could influence player salaries, revenue sharing, and other critical aspects of the league. Stewart's dual role as a player and union leader positions her as a significant figure in these discussions, potentially affecting the balance of power between players and team owners. The resolution of these issues will have lasting implications for the league's financial health and its ability to attract and retain top talent.
What's Next?
The next steps involve the finalization of the collective bargaining agreement, which will dictate the start of the WNBA season and training camps. If an agreement is reached soon, the season will proceed as scheduled, allowing players like Stewart to transition smoothly from international play back to the WNBA. The league and union must address key issues such as revenue sharing and player prioritization rules to avoid disruptions. Stakeholders, including team owners, players, and fans, are closely watching these developments, as they will shape the future of women's professional basketball in the U.S. and influence the league's competitive landscape.
