Growing up in Chicago in the '90s, I fondly remember the incredible sight of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen locked in an epic one-on-one battle on the court during their summer offseason. Just kidding. Of course that would never happen. Elite professional ballers — gold medal Olympians no less — would never be caught doing such a thing—until now, thanks to the brave women of the WNBA. Welcome to a new basketball club: It’s Unrivaled. The first season, found on TNT, TruTV, and Max, unveils the infinite and awesome possibilities of women’s basketball by rethinking the game’s format, structure, and financial ecosystem. Unrivaled is more than just a new club; it’s a game changer.
The format of Unrivaled sets it apart from traditional WNBA and NBA games, creating a thrilling new style of play. The 3x3 format introduces a fast-paced and high-intensity environment that departs from the standard five-on-five structure seen in professional leagues. With fewer teams and a smaller number of players compared to the W, the game creates an elite, competitive atmosphere where every possession counts. The NBA has thirty teams compared to the W’s thirteen, but Unrivaled dramatically condenses its roster from about 156 W players down to just thirty-six for a more exclusive competition, ensuring that only the best of the best take the court. Co-founded by W stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, this league prioritizes top-tier talent and action-packed games. The smaller, more agile game structure provides a fresh, engaging experience for both players and fans, amplifying the stakes of each game and shifting the narrative of women’s basketball.
