This year, winners will get their checks in a players’ lounge that the WNBPA and Aflac are building out for the weekend.

“This collaboration enables us to champion some of America’s most influential athletes, just as we provide direct cash payments to our valued policyholders,” said Aflac svp and CMO Garth Knutson. 

With the WNBA’s new media rights deal with Disney, Amazon Prime Video and NBCUniversal supplementing existing deals with CBS and Ion starting in 2026, the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league wrapping up its first higher-salaried season on TNT Sports, and a CBA battle looming, player compensation will be at the core of discussions surrounding this year’s WNBA season. But at a time when brands have increasing influence on the direction of the sport, they’re taking a seat and a side in labor discussions as well.

“Aflac’s investment in us isn’t a one-off. It’s year two. They are committing to us as an official partner of the WNBPA, and that’s a real commitment,” said WNBPA president and Seattle Storm All-Star Nneka Ogwumike. “We’re excited about what’s ahead as we grow this together. It’s not just about the rewards; it’s about building a future where our value is undeniable.”