What happened
South Carolina coach Dawn Staley told guard Raven Johnson on March 20 she'll make more as a WNBA rookie than A'ja Wilson or Aliyah Boston due to the new CBA. Staley emphasized the deal's historic pay increases while Johnson sat beside her post-tournament game. The WNBA and players' union announced a tentative CBA agreement on March 21, boosting the 2026 salary cap to $7 million from $1.5 million.
Why it matters
The CBA raises rookie scales dramatically, potentially 100 times past levels, making top picks financially viable and altering draft strategies. For bettors, higher guaranteed pay aids roster predictability and star retention, stabilizing futures odds. Johnson's projected late first-round status gains appeal amid elevated earnings vs. veterans' early careers.
What to watch
Monitor Johnson's NCAA Tournament play for draft stock shifts; await CBA ratification and rookie salary scale details.