Unrivaled, an innovative 3-on-3 women's basketball league, is set to redefine the landscape of women's sports. Co-founded by two prominent WNBA stars, Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, this league promises to bring unprecedented changes to the game. With a roster of top-tier talent and groundbreaking features, Unrivaled aims to elevate the status of women's basketball. The league will offer the highest average salaries in women's sports history and introduce unique elements such as a one-on-one tournament. Fans can look forward to thrilling matches starting January 17th, with broadcasts available on major platforms.
The league's structure includes six teams, each featuring some of the most talented players from the WNBA. The games will be played on a specially designed court that differs from traditional dimensions, adding a fresh dynamic to the sport. The season will span nine weeks, culminating in playoffs for the top four teams. Additionally, Unrivaled will host a single-elimination tournament to identify the world's best one-on-one player, further enhancing the excitement for fans.
Innovative Structure and Unique Features
The new league introduces several innovations that distinguish it from traditional formats. Unrivaled will feature a compact 70-foot-by-50-foot court, larger than the Olympic 3x3 half-court but smaller than standard WNBA courts. This design offers a faster-paced game experience, with matches divided into four quarters and strict time limits. Each game will be broadcast within a one-hour window, ensuring high-energy entertainment for viewers. The league also plans to hold a one-on-one tournament in February, providing a platform for individual excellence.
Unrivaled's unique approach extends beyond the playing field. The league aims to set a new standard in women's sports compensation, offering the highest average salaries in history. This commitment to player welfare underscores the founders' vision of empowering female athletes. Moreover, the league's schedule, including regular-season games and playoffs, ensures sustained excitement throughout the nine-week period. The playoffs, scheduled for March, will determine the ultimate champions among the top four teams, making every match crucial and intensely competitive.
Top Talent and Future Stars
Unrivaled boasts an impressive lineup of 36 players, divided into six teams. Among these athletes are established WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, who co-founded the league. Other notable players include Chelsea Gray, Arike Ogunbowale, and Jewell Loyd. These seasoned professionals bring immense skill and experience to the league, ensuring high-quality competition. Additionally, rising stars like Paige Bueckers have already committed to joining Unrivaled in the future, signaling the league's potential for long-term growth and success.
Beyond the current roster, the absence of certain key players, such as Caitlin Clark, adds an interesting dynamic. While Clark, the WNBA Rookie of the Year, will not participate, her decision highlights the strategic choices players must make between different leagues. The inaugural season kicks off on January 17th with a doubleheader in the Miami area, featuring matches between the Mist and Lunar Owls, and the Rose and Vinyl. Fans can catch all the action through TNT Sports platforms, available via cable and streaming services. The inclusion of a one-on-one tournament further enriches the viewing experience, promising a season filled with unforgettable moments.