Photo Credit: Unrivaled Instagram
Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier are out here doing more than just changing the game—they’re rewriting the entire playbook with their new league, Unrivaled. This isn’t just another basketball league; it’s the continued evolution of women’s baskeball we didnt know we needed. Set to launch in January 2025 during the WNBA’s offseason, Unrivaled is about to elevate the sport in ways we’ve only dreamed of. And with the well-deserved and continued rise of the WNBA’s popularity, this league is primed to continue shining a spotlight on women’s pro basketball like never before. Imagine Queen Latifah stepping into a room to rhyme with juggernauts like Rakim and Big Daddy Kane, proudly screaming “Ladies First” and making herself known—Unrivaled is here to stay. Welcome to the future of women’s basketball.
The buzz around Unrivaled has been electric, no doubt. Major props to their marketing and social media squad, who are running the game right now, and the comment sections on each social platform shows. Each daily clue about new players being added is done in a clever and creative manner that fans of the women’s game love. Every reel showcasing the women’s game—it’s all meticulously calculated to create a level of buzz and engagement we’ve never seen before. This strategic buildup has fans locked in and has set a new gold standard for promoting women’s sports. It’s clear the Unrivaled marketing team is on another level. They deserve all the flowers for making this league’s launch feel like a cultural moment.
The new league isn’t just about the hype; it’s doing so presenting the women’s game in a way that differentiates itself from the WNBA. The league will feature six teams, with six players per roster, competing in a 3-on-3 format, and the teams will exclusively play in Miami. But with recent team announcements, could we possibly see cities owning the teams in the future? This league isn’t just playing the game; it’s changing the game, offering unparalleled opportunities, and redefining what a women’s sports league can be.
One of the most revolutionary moves Unrivaled is making? The pay structure. We’re talking minimum six-figure salaries per season, making it the highest average salary in women’s pro sports league history. It’s more than just a paycheck; it’s a statement. With the WNBPA in the trenches negotiating a new deal, Unrivaled is stepping up to show that closing the gender pay gap in sports isn’t just talk—it’s action. The vision? Giving WNBA players the option of staying stateside during the WNBA offseason and supplementing their income, which in turn, expands the fandom of the women’s game here at home in a new, exciting three-on-three style.
The league has a diverse group of notable investors such as U.S. Soccer co-captain and two-time FIFA World Cup Winner, Alex Morgan former ESPN president John Skipper, ex-Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff, Megan Rapinoe, Steve Nash, and more. These high-profile names bring not only financial support but also credibility and long-term sustainability to the league. Napheesa Collier recently announced via social media that Unrivaled has already outperformed its financial projections, a testament to the league’s strong foundation and promising future.
Unrivaled is also already making moves for the future, locking in NIL deals with big-time players like future first-round pick Paige Bueckers. This isn’t just a partnership; it’s a power play. Unrivaled is showing that it’s all about supporting and promoting female athletes, giving them the financial benefits they deserve while letting them keep their brand and image intact. It’s a clear signal that Unrivaled is committed to investing in the success and growth of its players from day one. This league is here to build something lasting, and it’s starting strong with moves like this.
The league is keeping the door open for star players like 2024 WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson and Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, who have yet to decide if they will join. By expanding the roster from 30 to 36 players, Unrivaled aims to provide more opportunities for top talent. This approach ensures that future stars like Juju Watkins and Flau’jae Johnson will also have the opportunity to join Unrivaled in future seasons as the league grows.
The connection between Stewart and Collier runs deep, from winning championships together at UConn to their recent WNBA Finals matchup between Stewart’s Liberty and Collier’s Lynx. This on-court rivalry not only highlights their incredible talent and dedication but also adds to the excitement for Unrivaled. Their leadership sets the stage for the high-quality basketball that Unrivaled promises to deliver. With Stewart and Collier leading the charge, Unrivaled is set to redefine the game and inspire the next generation of women’s basketball players.
So here we are, in the midst of a revolution. Unrivaled isn’t just about changing the game, it’s about redefining it. These women are ready to ball out, break barriers, and make history. The inaugural season is just the tip of the iceberg. Remember this moment, because Unrivaled is about to show the world what ‘ladies first’ truly means in the world of basketball.
Peace, Love and And 1’s
Will “Willdris Teddyferro” Taliaferro III
The Full 94 Podcast
MTMV Sports
