Unrivaled is a new professional women’s basketball league featuring a 3-on-3 format, created by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Its main goal is to provide players with a competitive alternative during the WNBA offseason without the need to play overseas.
Unlike the WNBA, which follows the traditional five-on-five format, Unrivaled embraces a faster and more dynamic version of the game. This approach aims to attract new fans and increase the exposure of women’s basketball.
When and where is the Unrivaled League played?
The inaugural season of Unrivaled began on January 17, 2025, and will run until March 17, 2025. Games are held at Wayfair Arena in Miami, a venue with a capacity of 850 spectators, creating a more intimate and fan-focused atmosphere.
Matches are scheduled on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays, maximizing TV and in-person audience engagement while avoiding conflicts with other major sports competitions.
What are the teams and key players?
Unrivaled features six teams, each consisting of six players, many of whom are WNBA standouts. The teams are:
- Laces
- Mist
- Rose
- Lunar Owls
- Phantom
- Vinyl
Notable players in this inaugural season include Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, along with other well-known professional basketball stars.
How does the game format work?
Unrivaled’s format is designed to be faster and more intense than traditional basketball. Key rules include:
- A smaller court: 70×50 feet, more compact than a standard WNBA court.
- Short, dynamic games: Each match consists of three seven-minute periods, followed by a final untimed period where a “target score” is set.
- Target scoring system: At the end of the first three periods, 11 points are added to the leading team’s score. The first team to reach this target wins the game.
- 18-second shot clock, ensuring a faster pace of play.
What benefits does the League offer players?
One of the most attractive aspects of Unrivaled is its investment in player well-being and development. The league provides:
- Average salaries exceeding $100,000 per season, often surpassing WNBA base salaries.
- Luxury two-bedroom apartment accommodations for players.
- Rental cars and guaranteed transportation.
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including gyms, content creation spaces, and medical care.
- Equity ownership in the league, allowing players to have a stake in its growth.
What impact will Unrivaled have on women’s basketball?
The creation of Unrivaled marks a significant step forward for women’s basketball. Not only does it provide more professional playing opportunities within the U.S., but it could also serve as a platform for the sport’s growth, attracting new audiences and generating greater revenue.
With its innovative format and the backing of WNBA stars, Unrivaled has the potential to become a premier competition in women’s sports and redefine the future of professional basketball.
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