Veteran WNBA star Nancy Lieberman says the league’s newest collective bargaining agreement is directly tied to the surge in visibility brought by rookie sensation Caitlin Clark. In a recent interview, Lieberman explained that Clark’s arrival has sparked a national conversation that is reshaping how the WNBA negotiates its future.
A Deal That Redefines Money
The agreement introduces a revenue‑sharing model that allocates roughly 20 percent of league and team revenue to players, while nearly quintupling the team salary cap and adding upgrades to health benefits, retirement contributions and travel allowances. Lieberman emphasized that these financial upgrades are unprecedented in the league’s history.
Clark entered the WNBA in 2024 after a record‑setting college career at Iowa, and her presence has already translated into sold‑out arenas and television ratings that rival those of major men’s sports. The Indiana Fever’s games now draw crowds that echo the packed houses of earlier basketball dynasties.
Lieberman compares Clark’s cultural footprint to icons such as Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, noting that the attention she commands opens doors for every player on the roster. “When people watch Clark, they are also seeing the talent of A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Napheesa Collier and the rest,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Although the Fever opened the 2026 season with a slower start than many expected, Lieberman remains confident that the team will rally as the schedule progresses. She pointed to the depth of talent surrounding Clark and the growing familiarity opponents have with her game.