Breanna Stewart's EuroLeague Deal Sparks WNBA Debate
Breanna Stewart, a two-time WNBA MVP, is set to play in the EuroLeague in April, just a month before the 2026 WNBA season is supposed to begin. This move has sparked discussions about the WNBA's prioritization rule, which requires players to report to training camps on time, regardless of their international commitments.
Stewart, who played for Fenerbahçe in the 2022-23 season, has signed a deal to return to the Turkish club for the EuroLeague Women Final Six in April. She will be reunited with her New York Liberty teammate Emma Meesseman and several other WNBA players, including Gabby Williams, Iliana Rupert, Sevgi Uzun, and Julie Allemand. Kayla McBride, a star player for the Minnesota Lynx, was also with Fenerbahçe when she suffered a right quad injury in January.
The WNBA's prioritization rule is a hot topic, as it could potentially penalize players who have international commitments. However, under the current rule, Stewart would not be penalized. The rule is subject to collective bargaining and needs to be negotiated as part of the ongoing labor negotiations. Additionally, Stewart, like many WNBA veterans, will be a free agent when the CBA is finalized.
The WNBA and its union are working towards a new CBA, and sources indicate that a deal needs to be reached in the coming days to start the season on time. The league is also planning for free agency, an expansion draft, and the rookie draft, which will require significant lead time before the season begins on May 8. Stewart herself expressed optimism about a resolution between the WNBA and players' union last month.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the WNBA CBA negotiations during the NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. He emphasized the importance of reaching a deal at the last minute, stating that things often get done at the 11th hour. Silver's comments highlight the complexity of the negotiations and the potential impact on the WNBA and its players.
