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Are the New York Liberty Still Contenders? 2026 Preview + WNBA CBA Explained
Description
Is the New York Liberty’s championship window still open heading into 2026?
Gotta Get Up tackles the team’s future as the WNBA’s new CBA rewrites the rules of engagement. Hosts Erica L. Ayala and Brian Florentin break down the potential impacts of increased max salaries, the introduction of developmental roster spots, and vital changes for player movement—including trade protection clauses for pregnant players.
They weigh in on the franchise’s strategies with Brianna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, Banijah Laney Hamilton, and Natasha Cloud all in the free agency and expansion draft mix.
Reactions to a fast and furious off-season, a Final Four recap, and the looming arrival of new expansion teams—like the revived Houston Comets—keep the stakes high. Can Chris DeMarco steer the Liberty through roster shake-ups and a longer season?
The show examines what the Liberty must do to remain true contenders as they chase glory in the WNBA’s milestone 30th season.
🏀 In this episode:
🗽Elite 8 recap from the NCAA Women’s Tournament
🗽What the new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement means
🗽Free agency, roster questions, and key decisions ahead
🗽What has to happen for the Liberty to contend again in 2026
With a new coach, major roster uncertainty, and the league celebrating 30 seasons, this is a pivotal moment for New York.
00:00 Elite Eight recap and draft preview
03:23 UConn vs. Notre Dame matchup
07:04 South Carolina's offensive improvement
12:54 Lauren's growth and mindset
15:53 Intro and topics for today's episode
18:01 New collective bargaining agreement
19:48 Key updates in new CBA
23:15 WNBA salary updates and rookie pay
28:37 Connecticut Sun's history and legacy
30:08 WNBA award payouts increase
35:13 Discussing J.J.'s contract options
38:40 Team dynamics and Cloud's value
41:06 Elite Eight discussion and free agency
44:05 Navigating leadership during negotiations
48:26 Questions about Chris DeMarco's readiness
51:30 Preparing for the upcoming season
53:57 Looking ahead to WNBA season
56:09 Outro