The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is currently in the midst of labor negotiations with its players, with a primary focus on salaries. As discussions unfold, several star players have begun exploring opportunities in a new international league called “Project B,” which promises significantly higher compensation.
WNBA Labor Talks and Salary Discrepancies
The ongoing labor negotiations between the WNBA and its players have put salary discussions at the forefront. Diana Taurasi, one of the league’s most celebrated figures, expressed concerns earlier this year regarding player remuneration. While last year’s supermax salary in the WNBA was $249,244, players are advocating for contracts reaching $1 million—or more. However, the league’s latest proposal caps at $850,000, with a veteran minimum set around $300,000.
Introduction of Project B
In response to these salary limitations, several WNBA players are now joining “Project B,” a new league that aims to host 5-on-5 tournaments for both women and men from November to April. The initiative is gaining traction by offering players lucrative contracts that include equity stakes in the league, alongside annual salaries exceeding $2 million—almost ten times the current supermax in the WNBA. For those signing multi-year agreements, some Project B contracts reportedly exceed eight figures.
Notably, Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has become the ninth player to publicly commit to Project B. Alongside her, major WNBA figures such as Nneka Ogwumike, Alyssa Thomas, Jonquel Jones, and Kelsey Mitchell have also joined the roster. Other notable participants include Kamilla Cardoso, Li Meng, Jewell Lloyd, and Janelle Salaun.
Ogwumike, currently serving as the president of the players’ union and a former MVP, remains a dominant force in the league. Both Jones and Thomas were recognized among the top players in MVP voting last season, showcasing the talent that Project B has attracted.
Though Cunningham suffered an MCL injury in August and was subsequently sidelined for the season, Project B is enthusiastic about her involvement moving forward.
Funding and Future Prospects
Details surrounding the financial backing of Project B remain somewhat unclear, particularly concerning claims tied to Saudi Arabian investments. Founder Grady Burnett clarified in a conversation with Front Office Sports that the Saudi Public Investment Fund has not contributed financially, despite some allegations. However, a subsidiary of the fund has become an event partner for the league.
Moreover, several prominent athletes, including Candace Parker, Steve Young, Novak Djokovic, and Sloane Stephens, have invested in Project B, raising questions about its potential to compete with the established WNBA. While the future remains uncertain, Project B is undoubtedly positioning itself as a formidable contender in women’s basketball.
John is a seasoned journalist at The Bothside News, specializing in balanced reporting across news, sports, business, and lifestyle. He believes in presenting multiple perspectives to help readers form informed opinions. His work embodies the publication’s philosophy that truth emerges from examining all sides of every story.
