Unrivaled, a groundbreaking 3-on-3 professional women’s basketball league, is set to make its debut on January 17, 2025, in Miami, Florida. Founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, the league offers a domestic alternative for players during the WNBA offseason, aiming to keep athletes in peak condition while providing competitive compensation without the need for overseas travel.
League Structure and Format
Unrivaled features six teams, each comprising six players, totaling 36 athletes, including prominent figures like Angel Reese, Sabrina Ionescu, and Brittney Griner. The league emphasizes a fast-paced, position-less style of play, with games being broadcast on TNT and streamed on MAX, ensuring wide accessibility for fans.
The season is scheduled to run until March 17, concluding just before the NCAA Tournament, strategically positioning Unrivaled to capture basketball enthusiasts’ attention during a typically quieter period in women’s professional basketball.
Compensation and Player Experience
Unrivaled is committed to offering competitive salaries, with an average of $222,000 per player, supplemented by major brand partnerships. This financial model is designed to attract top talent and provide a viable alternative to international play.
The league has invested significantly in player amenities, transforming a $35 million Miami venue into a state-of-the-art facility. Amenities include LED boards, a weight facility, a glam room by Sephora, and courtside seating for 850 attendees, all aimed at enhancing the player and fan experience.
Innovative Partnerships and Technology Integration
Unrivaled has secured a partnership with Samsung as its official technology and presenting partner. This collaboration will utilize Samsung’s devices, such as the Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch, to track player performance, enhancing both player development and fan engagement through over 600 hours of social content.
Additional Competitions and Future Outlook
Beyond the regular season, Unrivaled plans to host a one-on-one tournament in February, featuring a $250,000 prize, adding an extra layer of excitement and competition for both players and fans.
As Unrivaled prepares for its inaugural tip-off, it stands poised to redefine women’s professional basketball by offering a compelling, domestically based alternative for athletes and an engaging, high-quality product for fans. The league’s innovative approach and commitment to excellence suggest a promising future in the evolving landscape of women’s sports.
Learn more at: https://www.swishappeal.com/wnba-ncaaw-news-womens-basketball-wbb
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The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!