Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 league founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, is poised to make a groundbreaking entry into the world of women's professional sports. The league, scheduled to kick off in January, promises players the highest average salaries ever seen in women's professional sports leagues.
All players in the Unrivaled league will receive six-figure salaries, a significant milestone in women's sports. Additionally, players will have the unique opportunity to own equity in the league, a move aimed at fostering generational wealth among athletes.
The league's compensation structure addresses a crucial need for players, many of whom have traditionally sought additional income by playing overseas during the WNBA offseason. The average base salary in the WNBA hovers around $130,000, with top players potentially earning over $500,000 through various avenues such as salary, marketing deals, tournaments, and bonuses.
Unrivaled's inaugural season will span eight weeks, featuring 30 players divided into six teams. Games will be played twice a week on a court slightly smaller than a WNBA court, with fixed team rosters throughout the season. The league's format includes four quarters with shorter durations compared to traditional WNBA games.
The league's rules and full roster are yet to be disclosed, but several WNBA All-Stars have already committed to participating. The league's innovative approach aims to enhance the viewing experience for fans by emphasizing speed and space while maintaining a competitive edge.
Unrivaled has garnered support from a diverse group of investors, including notable figures like Carmelo Anthony, Alex Morgan, and Ashton Kutcher. The league's media rights deal will be overseen by former ESPN President John Skipper and former Turner President David Levy, who are also investors in the project.
With a strong focus on player well-being, Unrivaled plans to provide accommodations close to the playing facility, complete with amenities like weight rooms and recovery spaces. The league's strategic partnerships and investor lineup reflect a growing interest in women's sports and the potential for significant growth in the sector.
Stewart and Collier expressed optimism about the league's future, highlighting the progress made since the league's inception two years ago. As the countdown to the inaugural season begins, Unrivaled stands poised to make a lasting impact on women's professional sports.
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