In a significant development for women’s sports, the startup basketball league Unrivaled has successfully closed a Series A funding round, securing an impressive $28 million as it gears up for its inaugural season. This funding comes on the heels of a previous seed round that raised $7 million in May, bringing the league’s total funding to an eye-catching $35 million in 2024. Unrivaled represents a bold attempt to reshape the landscape of women’s basketball by offering not only a competitive league but also innovative financial models that benefit players directly.
Co-founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled prides itself on being a player-owned organization. This model is particularly notable as it ensures that every player receives equity and a vested interest in the league’s long-term success. In an era where female athletes often receive significantly lower remuneration than their male counterparts, Unrivaled has managed to attract some of the top talents in the sport. With 36 elite players signed on and the promise of the highest average salaries in any women’s professional sports league, it sets a precedent that could encourage greater investment and interest in female athletics.
The funding round was notably supported by an array of high-profile investors, including NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo and Olympic legend Michael Phelps. The backing of such influential figures not only provides financial impetus but also credibility to Unrivaled’s vision. Furthermore, the league’s partnership with Under Armour as its official uniform sponsor and an exclusive media rights agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery underscores a strategic approach to grow visibility and marketability. By securing airtime on platforms like TNT, truTV, and Max, the league aims to reach broader audiences and generate significant viewer engagement.
One of the most glaring issues within women’s professional sports has been the disparity in pay when compared to male leagues. For example, superstar rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese earn just above $70,000 in the WNBA, a stark contrast to the millions awarded to their male counterparts. Unrivaled’s creation comes at a crucial time, aiming to rectify these disparities through better funding and more equitable compensation structures for female athletes. By having a league that genuinely invests in its players, Unrivaled could pave the way for a paradigm shift in how women’s professional sports are perceived and financially supported.
As Unrivaled prepares to launch its inaugural season on January 17, the expectations are high. It is not only a moment for the league but a critical juncture for women’s basketball as a whole. The unique funding strategy, player-driven model, and high-profile endorsements could combine to create a sustainable and impactful league that champions equity in sports. As the spotlight shines brighter on female athletes, Unrivaled stands poised to make monumental strides in empowering women in professional sports, inviting a new generation of fans and participants to the world of 3×3 basketball.