Statement of New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on WNBPA Contract Fight

Albany, NY - Today, on behalf of the 2.5 million members of the New York State AFL-CIO, a letter was sent to the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, calling on her to negotiate in good faith with the players' union to reach a fair and equitable contract.

The WNBA has experienced record growth over the past two years, securing an 11-year, $2.2 billion television contract, increasing merchandise sales, and significant increases in attendance, including right here in New York at the New York Liberty regular-season games. Yet the players responsible for this growth do not receive a single share of that revenue, a stark contrast to the significant role they play in the league's success.

That needs to change.

The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) is not alone in this fight. They have the unwavering support and full resources of the New York State AFL-CIO at their disposal.

We are committed to standing with the players for as long as it takes to reach an agreement that genuinely reflects their invaluable contributions to the WNBA.