The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement has expired, leaving the league to operate under the old terms as both the league and the players’ union continue discussions. As a result, teams are still expected to send out qualifying offers to free agents according to the established timeline. The Indiana Fever faces an important decision regarding qualifying offers for key players, including Kelsey Mitchell and Lexie Hull.
With the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement on Friday, the league has entered a status quo period in which teams must adhere to the guidelines of the previous agreement. Reports indicate that the league urged teams to issue qualifying offers as per the offseason schedule. This period runs from January 11 to January 20, during which teams will send core offers, restricted qualifying offers, and reserved qualifying offers to players.
WNBPA vice president Breanna Stewart mentioned that while players might receive qualifying offers, they have been advised against signing them prior to the ratification of a new collective bargaining agreement. Signing such offers would bind them to the salary terms of the expired agreement.
Additionally, while there has been ongoing speculation about the possibility of a moratorium on league business, neither side has formally announced such a halt. Therefore, the business operations, including the qualification offers through January 20, the beginning of free agent negotiations on January 21, and the official signing of free agents starting February 1, will continue as planned.
The Indiana Fever has a legal obligation to make decisions regarding qualifying offers for players by the deadline. Kelsey Mitchell, a finalist for MVP, is in line to receive a core qualifying offer, which would grant the Fever exclusive negotiating rights in exchange for a potential supermax salary of approximately $250,000. As an eight-year member of the Fever, Mitchell has reflected on her time with the team, expressing both affection for the franchise and uncertainty about her future.
Lexie Hull, who recently concluded her rookie contract, is also a significant consideration for the Fever. By extending a qualifying offer, Hull would become a restricted free agent, allowing her to receive offers from other teams while Indiana retains the right to match any offer she accepts. Hull has expressed her desire to remain in Indiana, indicating a strong connection with the franchise and its fans.
Furthermore, the Fever can extend a reserved qualifying offer to Chloe Bibby, who joined the team mid-season after being waived by the Golden State Valkyries. A reserved qualifying offer would afford Bibby a one-year minimum salary contract, granting the Fever exclusive rights to negotiate.
As the WNBA navigates this transitional period, teams like the Indiana Fever are making crucial decisions that will shape their future. The collaborative spirit between the league and its players is something to be hopeful for as both sides work towards a mutually beneficial agreement moving forward. Fans remain engaged and optimistic about the developments in the league as free agency approaches.