Angel Reese (Photo via YouTube)

The WNBA’s rising star, Angel Reese, has a clear message for the league- meet the players’ demands, or risk a major holdout in 2026. The Chicago Sky forward, fresh off an All-Star rookie season, didn’t mince words on her “Unapologetically Angel” podcast when discussing the league’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations.

With the WNBA opting out of its CBA last October, the countdown to a new deal is on. If an agreement isn’t reached, a league-wide work stoppage looms. While Reese isn’t guaranteed a seat at the negotiating table, she’s eager to be involved.

“I got to get in the meetings, because I’m hearing like, if y’all don’t give us what we want, we sitting out,” Angel Reese said.

Players Confident To Take A Stand

Angel Reese (Photo via TNT)

WNBA players have long advocated for better salaries, improved benefits, and greater investment in the league’s future. With women’s basketball experiencing unprecedented growth, Angel Reese and her peers believe it’s time for compensation to reflect their impact. The 2026 rookie class could be a turning point. “The ones coming this year will still be on the rookie contract again. The ones that a year after, they probably gonna be making more than us,” Reese pointed out, highlighting how negotiations could reshape pay scales.

A work stoppage could have massive consequences. The WNBA has gained significant momentum, and a strike could derail progress. But for players, holding the league accountable is just as crucial. “If they can work out a deal that’s fair, they should be tough during negotiations,” Angel Reese added.

The WNBA now faces a pivotal moment. Will the league step up to meet player demands, or will the hardwood stay empty in 2026? For now, the ball is in the league’s court.