The WNBA has experienced a surge in popularity this season, with over 2.5 million fans attending games, breaking a single-season attendance record that stood for more than two decades despite having fewer teams (13 versus 16) and fewer games (226 versus 256). This growth has been partly attributed to the impact of second-year superstar Clark, who brought a substantial fanbase from her record-setting collegiate career. However, the league faces uncertainty as the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the WNBA and its players union is unlikely to be renewed by the October 31 deadline. Negotiations remain gridlocked, with the players union accusing the league of "running out the clock" on talks, while the WNBA insists that completing a new CBA is its top priority. Key issues in the negotiations include players' demands for greater revenue sharing from sponsorships and clarity on league expansion. Industry reports, such as one from Wasserman's women-focused practice The Collective, support the players' stance on revenue sharing. There is concern that without an extension or resolution, the league could face a work stoppage or lockout. Meanwhile, the WNBA schedule is expected to worsen before improving. In related basketball news, Nigerian guard Ezinne Kalu has signed with the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association team Wuhan Shengfan ahead of the 2025/26 season.