Angel Reese Makes Powerful Declaration Amid WNBA CBA Standoff

Jul 18, 2025 1:58 PM EDT

Angel Reese didn’t hold back when speaking about the WNBA’s ongoing CBA negotiations. During a media scrum led by Robin Lundberg ahead of All-Star weekend, the Chicago Sky star made it clear she’s all in on the players’ fight for a fair deal.

“It’s bigger than me,” Reese said. “We are all here to fight for the same thing and what we deserve. We’re not going to stop until we get exactly what we want.”

Reese was one of more than 40 players who participated in Thursday’s meeting between the WNBA and the WNBPA in Indianapolis to discuss the league’s next Collective Bargaining Agreement. It was her first time attending a meeting in person, and she came away with a new perspective.

“Yesterday’s meeting really woke me up to the fact that we aren’t getting what we deserve,” Reese said. “I didn’t know all this stuff. And now, being more informed, I can be more vocal.”

The current CBA expires at the end of the 2025 season, and negotiations have intensified as players push for what they call a “transformational” agreement. Central issues include player salaries, revenue sharing, working conditions and benefits. Players are requesting significant raises, enhanced travel and training accommodations and improved support off the court, including childcare and retirement benefits.

Chicago’s Angel Reese spoke up on behalf of WNBA players ahead of the league’s All-Star game this weekend. — Source: © Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

While the league has acknowledged the need for progress, it also stresses sustainability. WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said that the league seeks a deal that balances the players’ needs with the league’s long-term financial health.

Still, Reese and her peers are determined. “We’re about business,” she said. “This is the league I love so much, and we’re not going to stop fighting.”

The message is clear. The players aren’t backing down, and Reese is ready to be one of the voices leading the charge.