WNBA execs believe that the league is "entering a new era," at least when it comes to how the league "sells itself," according to Ava Wallace of the WASHINGTON POST. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on Thursday acknowledged the WNBA "hasn’t developed into a stronger consumer business yet." But he said: "We’re in essence doubling down on it. We believe in it. We believe we can turn it into a successful business." The WNBA "launched a brand 'refresh' last month that included a new logo," as well as deals with AT&T and CBS Sports Network. However, there are "matters that taken together make the 23rd WNBA season" what COO Christin Hedgpeth called an “inflection point.” The league has been "without a president since Oct. 2, when Lisa Borders stepped down after three seasons." Players have opted out of the CBA, which will now expire after this season, in "hopes of achieving higher pay and better working conditions." Seattle Storm G Sue Bird said, "We’re still in a state of figuring out exactly what business model is going to make this product grow." Gaining exposure is "still paramount for the league, and in that area, players see progress" with the CBS Sports deal (WASHINGTON POST, 5/10).
CALLING FOR CHANGE: Washington Mystics President & Managing Partner Sheila Johnson said WNBA players "need to be paid" better. Johnson said, "We need money. This is something that we are constantly fighting for. ... My biggest role is going out to corporations and literally trying to sell my team for corporate sponsorship." She added, "I just feel so bad when we are trying to find housing for them, and they are trying to find a car. They are the greatest athletes in the world and why should they be treated any different from the men?" (ESPN.com, 5/9).
