The coming months are pivotal for the future of women’s basketball, particularly due to ongoing negotiations between WNBA players and league officials regarding the anticipated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This agreement is expected to have a significant impact on various aspects of the league, including player salaries, which have been a focal point of discussion.
If a new CBA is finalized and implemented before the start of the 2026 season, it will likely trigger a major shuffle in the free agency landscape. This winter, the vast majority of WNBA veterans, with the exception of two players, will become unrestricted free agents. Many players seek to maximize their earnings under the new salary structure proposed in the CBA, which would lead to a substantial transformation of team rosters across the league.
The Indiana Fever has a relatively stable outlook heading into next season, primarily because key players Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark are still under rookie contracts. However, the rest of their roster could see significant changes come 2026, especially with many players exploring free agency.
Cassandra Cunningham, a fan favorite from the Fever, recently made headlines for expressing her desire for a more lucrative contract. On her podcast, she stated, “I think the next team I play for, I want a bigger contract. So then I can buy a house and be homey and cozy.” This candid admission has resonated with Fever supporters, who are urging the franchise to meet her contract expectations to ensure she stays with the team.
Cunningham has repeatedly shown interest in continuing her career with Indiana, and if the front office responds positively to her financial aspirations, it’s likely she would remain a key player for the Fever, potentially beginning house hunting in the Indianapolis area soon.
As negotiations progress, both players and fans are hopeful that the outcome will foster a more supportive environment for athletes in the WNBA, enabling them to establish long-term roots in their communities while enhancing the overall quality of the sport. The forthcoming developments in the CBA discussions and free agency promises an exciting chapter for women’s basketball.