Report: WNBA proposal includes 22-game season with players receiving 100% of their salaries

The WNBA has been negotiating plans for a return to action, and the league and its players appear to be closing in on a deal. The latest WNBA proposal includes players receiving 100 percent of their 2020 salaries, even in a shortened season, according to ESPN’s Mechelle Voepel.

A week ago, Voepel reported the WNBA proposed a 22-game season, starting July 24th, to take place at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, with an unspecified playoff length. The WNBA season is normally 36 games, and the league proposed players receive 60 percent of their salaries.

The players pushed back on a salary decrease and the league has come back with a willingness to pay the players in full. The latest proposal also includes a standard playoff with single-elimination first- and second-round games, then five-game series for the semifinals and the WNBA Finals, and the whole thing wrapping up in October.

ESPN is reporting the deal includes an opt-out option for players medically certified as high-risk, who would receive their salary regardless. Players, coaches, and other team personnel would receive Covid-19 testing upon arrival in Bradenton, and then throughout the season. Players with kids could bring their kids plus a caretaker with lodging, testing, and meals covered. Players with at least five years’ experience could bring a plus-one, but would need to pay for lodging, testing, and meals for the plus-ones. Players would get some meals covered and have per diems for other meals and groceries.