The WNBA issued a league-record $500,000 fine to the New York Liberty for traveling by charter flights during the second half of last season, Sports Illustrated reported Tuesday.
League officials, who originally sought a $1 million fine, also removed Liberty executive Oliver Weisberg from the WNBA’s executive committee.
The use of charter flights violates the collective bargaining agreement because it provides a competitive advantage, as not all team owners can afford the luxury.
Teams fly commercial during the season, which has led to difficult travel conditions over the years for players and coaches.
Liberty owner Joseph Tsai addressed his team’s travel concerns last October.
“Enough is enough. I’m going to solve this transportation problem for good,” he tweeted. “Getting your team to an away game and back comfortably, safely and on time is a business necessity. It’s the right thing every owner should do.
“League says you can’t fly charter because different owners have different financial circumstances. I’m working with Commissioner (Cathy) Engelbert to find a charter sponsor. Conversations with airline CEOs going well. They get the idea of equity for women athletes.”
–Field Level Media