Unrivaled: A New Era for Women’s 3-on-3 Basketball
As the world of women’s sports continues to evolve, a new league is set to make waves in the basketball community. Unrivaled, a groundbreaking women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, is gearing up to tip off in January 2025. This week, players and fans alike got a sneak peek at the league’s branding, including the identities of the six teams that will compete in its inaugural season.
A Unique Identity for Each Team
On October 24, Unrivaled unveiled the team identities, showcasing a fresh approach to branding in women’s basketball. The league, which will be played on a soundstage in Miami, has opted for a unique model where none of the teams are tied to specific geographic locations. This innovative decision allows for a more flexible and dynamic league structure. The six team names, which incorporate the term "Basketball Club," were developed by the creative agency Doubleday & Cartwright. This naming convention draws inspiration from European soccer clubs, aiming to foster a sense of community and loyalty among fans.
The Vision Behind Unrivaled
Unrivaled was founded by WNBA All-Stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, who recognized the need for elite women’s basketball players to have a platform to continue their careers during the WNBA offseason. The league aims to provide a competitive environment for players who might otherwise seek opportunities overseas. Each of the six teams will consist of five players, competing on a compact full-court measuring 70 feet by 50 feet.
Future-Proofing the League
In an interview with Sports Business Journal, Unrivaled President Alex Bazzell shared insights into the league’s long-term vision. He revealed plans for a traveling tour-style schedule starting in 2026, which influenced the identity development process. The league is currently operating under a single-entity model, meaning that it owns all franchises and players are part of the ownership group at the league level. Bazzell emphasized the importance of attracting great owners who are committed to the league’s growth, hinting at the potential for future franchise sales and relocations.
Aiming for Historic Salaries and Ownership
Unrivaled is not just about competition; it’s also about elevating the financial landscape for women athletes. The league is striving for the highest average salaries in women’s sports history, ensuring that all 30 players in the inaugural season will receive equity ownership. This commitment to player compensation and ownership is a significant step forward in promoting gender equity in sports.
High-Profile Investors Join the Cause
The league has attracted a diverse group of investors, including former ESPN president John Skipper, former Turner Broadcasting president David Levy, and notable athletes like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Carmelo Anthony, and Steve Nash. Even actor and entrepreneur Ashton Kutcher has joined the ranks of supporters, highlighting the broad appeal and potential of Unrivaled.
Broadcasting the Action
As excitement builds for the inaugural season, Unrivaled has secured a television deal with TNT Sports. Fans can look forward to watching the games broadcast on TNT, TruTV, and Max, ensuring that the league reaches a wide audience and garners the attention it deserves.
Looking Ahead
While Unrivaled has been actively announcing player signings since the summer, the allocation of players to individual teams is still forthcoming. As the league prepares for its launch, the anticipation continues to grow, promising an exciting new chapter in women’s basketball. With a focus on community, player empowerment, and innovative branding, Unrivaled is poised to make a significant impact on the sports landscape.