Episode
Are the New York Liberty Still Contenders? 2026 Preview + WNBA CBA Explained
- Podcast
- Gotta Get Up!
- Published
- Apr 2, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3384
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://gottagetuppod.transistor.fm/s4/1
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Summary
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…