The launch of Unrivaled, a new professional 3-on-3 women’s basketball league, marks a significant step forward for women’s sports in the United States. Co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, the league aims to enhance the visibility and viability of women’s basketball during the WNBA offseason, offering an alternative platform for players to compete and earn.
With 36 participants, all of whom played in the WNBA last season, the league features a roster brimming with talent, including 15 2024 WNBA All-Stars such as Collier, Stewart, and Alyssa Thomas, as well as famous athletes like Brittney Griner and Sabrina Ionescu. The inaugural season will run for two months, culminating in a playoff tournament that will take place on March 17, alongside a unique 1-on-1 player tournament midway through the season.
Unrivaled has secured numerous corporate partnerships and has raised $35 million in funding, illustrating a strong market interest and investment in women’s sports. Key sponsors include Sephora, State Farm, Wilson, and recently announced partners like Sprite for the 1-on-1 tournament and Bodyarmor as the official sports drink. This measure is not only an effort to amplify the league’s presence but also reflects a broader trend of increasing support from prominent brands for women’s sports.
Collier emphasizes the immense potential that this league holds, noting the importance of investment in women’s sports. The league projects an average player salary surpassing WNBA figures, with a pool exceeding $8 million, indicating a commitment to fair compensation. Players will also receive equity and revenue shares, providing a lucrative package that enriches their participation in the league.
As the games will be broadcast on TNT and available through streaming on WBD’s Max, the league aims to attract a diverse audience and expand its viewership demographics, which could prove vital for its sustainability and growth.
In essence, Unrivaled not only fills a crucial gap in the women’s basketball calendar but also exemplifies a progressive shift in how women’s sports are perceived and valued. If successful, it could serve as a catalyst for the further advancement of women’s athletics beyond its current state, potentially reshaping the landscape of professional sports for women.
This initiative illustrates a hopeful future for women’s sports, showcasing both the talent of female athletes and the increasing acceptance and recognition of their impact in the sports industry. The inaugural season of Unrivaled is ripe with potential and could herald a new era in women’s basketball.