Phoenix, AZ— Phoenix Mercury star Satou Sabally didn’t mince words when discussing the current state of the WNBA and the ongoing negotiations between the players’ union and the league. While acknowledging the excitement surrounding league expansion, Sabally emphasized the need to prioritize the needs of current players.
Sabally revealed her disappointment with the league’s latest CBA proposal, calling it “honestly a slap in the face.”
“I think we can focus on our players in the union,” Sabally said. “We got a CBA proposal from the league, which was honestly a slap in the face. And I think we really have to emphasize the players that are in our league right now.“
Despite her frustration with the CBA negotiations, Sabally expressed excitement about the league’s growth with the addition of new teams in Philadelphia and Detroit.
“I love to see the league growing. I think adding these teams in Philly and Detroit, that’s how amazing it is that the league can grow.“
However, Sabally believes that alongside expansion, the WNBA should focus on improving the experience for its current athletes, suggesting roster expansion as a potential solution.
“But how cool would it also be to have? A little bit of expansion on the rosters, like let’s focus on the team,” she said, while advocating for more opportunities for players on each WNBA franchise.
Sabally’s comments highlight a growing tension between celebrating the WNBA’s growth and addressing the concerns of the players who are the driving force behind its success. As negotiations continue, it’s clear that players like Sabally are determined to advocate for a CBA that reflects their value and contributions to the league.
