The WNBA and Women's National Basketball Players' Association have agreed to a tentative collective bargaining agreement for the 2026 season, likely ending lengthy negotiations. The agreement, which was announced at 3 a.m. ET, allows the season to start on schedule and avoid the league's first work stoppage. The deal was reached 51 days before the season is set to begin. Despite initial progress, the agreement will need to be officially approved by both sides before it can be ratified by the league. It also requires a two-team expansion draft, a supersized free agency and the college draft to be implemented.