Professional sports sometimes get a bad rap, especially when contract talks arise. A select group of fans, regardless of the sport, often claim athletes are overpaid to “just play a game.” In reality, anyone in the same position would fight to secure the best possible deal at their job, regardless of whether it is in the entertainment industry or not.

The WNBA’s current collective bargaining agreement (CBA), enacted in 2020, is set to expire after this season. As the league drafts a new version, players across the league are weighing in. Former Texas A&M player and WNBA champion Sydney Colson is advocating for a more progressive deal that reflects the league’s recent growth.

“We’re not asking for anything crazy, but it’s only fair that players start to reap some of the financial rewards for bringing in better attendance in the home arenas, neutral sites, whatever it is. Players are helping to grow the game, grow our market. We should see some of that.”

Over the past decade, the league’s top teams have averaged between 8,500 and 9,500 fans per game. However, attendance spiked with the arrival of college phenom Caitlin Clark, one of the most polarizing figures in sports today. With new eyes on the court, average attendance over the last two seasons has ranged from 10,000 to 14,000, with the Indiana Fever leading the league at over 16,000 fans per game.

This surge couldn’t be better timed. The WNBA is capitalizing on the popularity of Clark and Angel Reese, along with a standout 2024 rookie class that includes former UCONN star and Rookie of the Year frontrunner Paige Bueckers.

While league officials are discussing expansion, many players are prioritizing growth through expanded rosters and improved salaries. Colson emphasized the need for a more equitable agreement:

“As the league grows, it’s time for a CBA that reflects our true value”

“We are fighting for a fair share of the business that we’ve built, because it is a business…”

With college players now entering the league more pro-ready than ever, the game itself has evolved. Before expanding into new markets, Colson and other athletes believe the WNBA should focus on strengthening its foundation and ensuring that existing teams are financially sustainable.

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This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Sydney Colson, Aggie and WNBA Champion, Demands Equity in New CBA