What happens when warmups make a louder statement than the game? At the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, players hit the court wearing bold black T-shirts with five words that said it all: “Pay Us What You Owe Us.” And this wasn’t merely a fashion choice, it was rather a flashing neon sign aimed directly at league leadership.
Tensions are rising as the WNBA and its Players’ Association (WNBPA) remain at odds over a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. After opting out of the current CBA last October, the two sides are now staring down a fast-approaching fall deadline. And according to the New York Post, players are “bracing” for a potential work stoppage if no deal is struck. The 2026 season? It’s already looking shaky.
Players are wearing “Pay Us What You Owe Us” t-shirts during WNBA All-Star Game warmups. pic.twitter.com/Dv206QVcRM
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) July 20, 2025
But this isn’t just posturing. WNBPA president Nneka Ogwumike insisted players aren’t threatening. They’re organizing. “We want to get a good deal done,” she said, hinting at a critical upcoming meeting with “high player participation.” Translation, people? The stakes are sky-high. From the All-Star stage to the negotiating table, the message couldn’t be clearer. What’s next? We’re watching closely as this battle over respect, pay, and power unfolds. Come back here for more updates!
(This is a developing story…)
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