In an innovative move to elevate women's basketball, the newly established 3-on-3 league Unrivaled is set to make its debut this Friday. Founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, this league aims to provide a platform for athletes to earn higher salaries during the offseason without having to travel overseas. The league features six teams, each with six players, including numerous top-tier WNBA talent. With a unique set of rules and generous compensation, Unrivaled promises to be a thrilling addition to the world of women's sports.
The Dawn of Unrivaled: A Game-Changer in Women's Basketball
In the heart of winter, on Friday night, the spotlight will shine on Medley, Florida, as the inaugural games of Unrivaled unfold. This new 3-on-3 league, championed by WNBA luminaries Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, marks a significant milestone in women's professional basketball. Both founders have extensive experience playing abroad—Collier in France and Stewart in Turkey—but they envision a future where players can thrive domestically.
The league boasts an impressive roster of 36 WNBA players, ensuring high-caliber competition from day one. Sensational rookie Angel Reese and other stars like Sabrina Ionescu, Satou Sabally, Alyssa Thomas, and Arike Ogunbowale will captivate audiences with their skills. The court, approximately 20 feet shorter than a standard WNBA court, sets the stage for fast-paced, intense action.
Unrivaled introduces a novel format with three seven-minute quarters followed by an untimed fourth quarter. Teams play to a "winning score," adding 11 points to the leading team's total after three quarters. Free throws are awarded based on the type of foul, with shooting fouls resulting in free throws worth the same points as the missed shot. An 18-second shot clock, faster than the WNBA's 24 seconds, adds urgency to every possession.
Compensation for players is unprecedented, with nearly all earning over $100,000, making it the highest average salary in any women's sports league. Players also receive equity stakes in the league, fostering long-term investment. Additional events, such as a 1-on-1 tournament with a $250,000 prize, further enrich the experience. The season runs from January 19 to March 17, with broadcasts on TNT and TruTv, anchored by former WNBA star Candace Parker.
While the WNBA draft is scheduled for April 14 and the regular season begins on May 16, Unrivaled offers a valuable opportunity for players to stay sharp and showcase their talents in the interim.
From a journalist's perspective, Unrivaled represents a pivotal moment for women's sports. It addresses the longstanding issue of player compensation and provides a platform for athletes to grow their brands domestically. By offering competitive salaries and innovative gameplay, Unrivaled not only enhances the careers of current players but also inspires future generations. The success of this league could redefine the landscape of women's basketball, proving that innovation and investment can lead to greater opportunities and recognition for female athletes.