The players are speaking loud and clear.
The Women’s National Basketball Players Association executive committee announced Thursday that the union has been authorized to call a strike “when necessary.”
The overwhelming vote included 93% of players, with 98% of them voting “yes” in favor of authorization to call a strike, per the union.
“The players have spoken. Through a decisive vote with historic participation, our membership has authorized the WNBPA’s Executive Committee to call a strike when necessary,” the union said in a statement. “The players’ decision is an unavoidable response to the state of negotiations with the WNBA and its teams.”
To be clear, the players aren’t currently on strike. But the the vote gives the committee the OK to call for one if the union and WNBA aren’t able to reach a deal after the deadline. Both sides initially had an October deadline to ratify a deal. The current deadline has been extended to Jan. 9, according to reports.
“Time and again, the players’ thoughtful and reasonable approach has been met by the WNBA and its teams with a resistance to change and a recommitment to the draconian provisions that have unfairly restricted players for nearly three decades,” the union said. “The players’ vote is neither a call for an immediate strike nor an intention to pursue one. Rather, it is an emphatic affirmation of the players’ confidence in their leadership and their unwavering solidarity against ongoing efforts to divide, conquer, and undervalue them.
“Let it be known. The players remain united, resolute, and prepared to fight for their value and their future.”
This is a developing story. Check back for more details.
