Sophie Cunningham unveils surprising secrets about the negotiations of the new collective bargaining agreement

Sophie Cunningham has stepped forward to reveal how WNBA collective bargaining negotiations really work, exposing a side of the sport many fans don’t see.

In her latest appearance on the Show Me Something podcast, Cunningham admitted she only recently began to understand the process after being asked about the 30-day extension agreed upon between the league and the WNBPA.

The secrets of negotiation according to Sophie Cunningham

“I actually learned a lot because we’ve been having calls about the collective bargaining agreement. It’s very interesting. I love the business side. But when you don’t know, you just don’t know,” Cunningham confessed.

She explained that a lockout only occurs if one party stops negotiations or shows disinterest, clarifying a common misunderstanding among fans and players regarding the October 31 deadline.

The extension allows the league to continue operating while both sides work toward an agreement, which Cunningham describes as a fascinating behind-the-scenes look.

“What they’re doing, what they’re not doing. What we’re doing, what we’re not doing. It’s been great just to sit and listen.”

What’s at stake for the WNBA

Beyond being a lesson for players, the situation has major implications for the WNBA. A potential lockout would trigger legal rights for the union, including complaints for unfair labor practices or even antitrust actions.

Cunningham highlighted the importance of these negotiations, which aim for a revenue-sharing model closer to the NBA, along with improvements in maternity, retirement, and contract prioritization rules.

With expansion teams like Portland and Toronto waiting on roster and salary cap decisions, and a wave of free agents approaching, any delays could disrupt 2026 season planning.

According to Sophie Cunningham, understanding these processes is not only crucial for player job security but also for the league’s future.

Cunningham concluded that the negotiations have been a personal revelation. “It’s a completely different world than what we see on the court. Learning how the pieces move behind the scenes has given me a whole new perspective.”